体坛英语新闻：London is ready to host a memorable Games, says Olympic legends

Laureus Academy Member Nadia Comaneci, the most celebrated gymnast of our time, said: "I'm very happy that we can stage the Laureus World Sports Awards in London because it is a great pre-Olympic start for what is going to happen in the summer."

Double Olympic decathlon gold medalist Daley Thompson, completing the panel of Laureus Academy Members, revealed he cannot wait for the world to come to Britain.

"I'm looking forward to the opportunity to show people how well we can do things, it will be a fantastic Games," he said.

"I'm just glad that we have the chance to show our country off. We put on big events really well, and no event is bigger than the Olympic Games."

The Laureus World Sports Awards, which recognize sporting achievement during the year, are the premier honors on the international sporting calendar.

The winners are chosen by the Laureus Academy Members and proceeds from the Awards directly benefit and underpin the work of the Laureus Foundation, which supports 91 community sports projects in 34 countries and regions.