South Africa stands tall once again as Pieter-Steph du Toit rewrites history, becoming the first Springbok to win the World Rugby Player of the Year award twice—proving that champions are born, but legends are made!
Global (25 November 2024) – South Africans are no strangers to excellence, and once again, the Springboks have shown the world why they’re a force to be reckoned with. Pieter-Steph du Toit has been crowned World Rugby Player of the Year 2024, making history as the first South African to win this coveted accolade twice. What a moment of pride for our nation!
The announcement came at a glittering awards ceremony in Monaco, where Du Toit’s incredible performance this year was celebrated. At 32 years old, he has added yet another remarkable achievement to his already illustrious career. His first win in 2019 set the standard, and this second honour cements his legacy as one of the greats.
Du Toit wasn’t the only Springbok to shine on the global stage. Six of his teammates joined him in the World Rugby Men’s 15s Dream Team for 2024. Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe, Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, Damian de Allende, and Jesse Kriel were recognised for their contributions to South Africa’s dominant season.
This recognition is more than just a personal achievement for the players—it’s a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the Springbok spirit. Under the leadership of coach Rassie Erasmus, the Boks have become a family, and it shows in the way they perform, lift each other up, and represent South Africa with pride.
Even off the field, South African rugby continues to make a difference. SA Rugby’s “The Bag That Builds” project, which turns tournament waste into building materials for community housing, was celebrated with the Rugby for All Award. Initiatives like this show that sport has the power to uplift and create lasting change.
From claiming the Castle Lager Rugby Championship to lifting the Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate, Freedom Cup, and Prince William Cup, the Springboks have had a season for the ages. Their impressive win rate of 84.6% is proof of their dominance on the international stage.
Coach Rassie Erasmus captured the sentiment perfectly: “This is all thanks to the collective effort. The players give their all week-in and week-out, and it’s an inspiration to us all.”
To du Toit, the Dream Team players, and everyone who made this season unforgettable: thank you for reminding us that champions are made through dedication, teamwork, and an unwavering belief in the extraordinary. South Africa is proud of you!
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