The Silver Laurel Leaf is Germany's highest award for achievement in the world of sport. It was instituted in 1950 by Federal President Theodor Heuss.

It is awarded to:

• German medallists at the Olympic Games and the Paralympics,
• German teams coming first, second or third in world and European championships,
• European and world champions,
• Sportsmen and sportswomen with a record of outstanding performance.

The Federal President awards the Silver Laurel Leaf to individuals nominated by the President of the German Sports Federation or the President of the National Paralympic Committee Germany.

Individuals who are awarded the Silver Laurel Leaf receive a certificate and the ladies' or men's version of the Silver Laurel Leaf emblem, both to be worn in miniature. If the Silver Laurel Leaf is awarded to a team, the relevant sports federation receives a larger version of the emblem (not wearable) as well as a team certificate.