PIETER-STEPH DU TOIT WORLD RUGBY PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Pieter-Steph du Toit has been named the men’s 15 World Player of the Year for the second time.

The awards show took place on Sunday in Monaco.

Fellow Springboks Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe, along with Caelan Doris from Ireland, were also nominated alongside du Toit.

Du Toit was praised for his consistency throughout the year, during which he played in one of the most demanding positions in sports. In 2024, he played almost every minute of every match in which he wore the green and gold jersey.

But, the night wasn’t without its hiccups. Du Toit’s connecting flight in London was delayed due to bad weather and he missed the opportunity to go on stage and accept his award. His wife, Willemien was in the crowd and accepted the award on his behalf.

On his arrival, she met him in the foyer and handed the trophy to him.

Du Toit is the first South African to win the World Men’s 15s Player of the Year for a second time. The only other players to have done so are All Blacks Dan Carter, Richie McCaw and Beuden Barret.

Image credit: The Citizen