Established in 1961 by US Sailing and sponsored by Rolex, U.S.A. since 1980, US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year award recognizes the individual male and female U.S. sailors who have demonstrated on-the-water excellence at international and national events bringing global recognition to sailing in the United States. To earn their place in the history of the sport, these sailors are US citizens who are proven stewards of sailing, demonstrate sportsmanship on and off the water and achieve the highest level of success in prominent international, continental, and national championship sailing competitions in a calendar year. The award does not consider career racing outcomes, lifelong accomplishments, or philanthropic contributions to the sport as criteria for consideration.
All nominations must be submitted by December 31, 2025.