Federer won three of the four Grand Slam events in 2006

Federer beat golfer Tiger Woods and retired Formula One driver Michael Schumacher to the prize.

Russian pole vaulter Yelena Isinbayeva was named Sportswoman of the Year, and Italy's footballers got the team prize.

Britain's Lewis Hamilton was beaten to the Breakthrough of the Year honour by French tennis player Amelie Mauresmo.

Federer said afterwards: "It is a great honour for me to recieve this award for the third straight year.

Winning it was always a dream of mine and now this dream has come true Yelena Isinbayeva

"I'm very proud so thanks very much and I hope to see you next year."

The nominees were selected by a panel of journalists from 128 countries and the winners were chosen by the 43-strong Laureus Academy members.

Isinbayeva was pleased to be given recognition for her achievements after three nominations for the award.

The 24-year-old said: "I've been so disappointed for the last two years because I was sure I would win, but this time I've done it.

"Winning it was always a dream of mine and now this dream has come true."

Briton Luke Dowdney was given the Sport for Good award for founding a boxing project for young people in Rio de Janeiro.

Sportsman of the Year
Roger Federer, Switzerland, tennis

Sportswoman of the Year
Yelena Isinbayeva, Russia, pole vault

Team of the Year
Italy's men's soccer team

Comeback of the Year
Serena Williams, United States, tennis

Breakthrough of the Year
Amelie Mauresmo, France, tennis

Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability
Martin Braxenthaler, Germany, skiing

Action Sportsperson of the Year
Kelly Slater, United States, surfing

Special Awards:

Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award
Franz Beckenbauer, Germany

Laureus Spirit of Sport Award
FC Barcelona, Spain