Final answer:
The laurel became sacred to Apollo as it symbolized his power, victory, and divine presence. Apollo's association with the laurel can be traced back to ancient Greek mythology and religious practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Apollo's association with the laurel can be traced back to ancient Greek mythology and religious practices. In one story, Apollo pursued the nymph Daphne, who was transformed into a laurel tree to escape him.
Another myth recounts how Apollo wore a laurel wreath to celebrate his victory over the python, a monstrous serpent. These stories established the laurel as a symbol of Apollo's power, victory, and divine presence. The laurel became sacred to Apollo as it represented his triumphs and connection to the natural world.