The Swiss tennis star was preferred in the vote by journalists to retired Formula One ace Michael Schumacher and golf icon Tiger Woods.

The sportswoman of the year title went to Russia's world record pole vaulter Yelena Isinbayeva.

France's Wimbledon champion Amelie Mauresmo picked up the breakthrough of the year honour ahead of Briton's F1 rookie Lewis Hamilton.

Serena Williams' exploit in returning from injury to capture the Australian women's Open title earned her the comeback of the Year trophy.

There was no surprise at the destination of the team of the year prize which went to Italy's World Cup winning footballers.