South African rugby’s golden year continued in glittering fashion at the 2024 World Rugby Awards in Monaco, where Pieter-Steph du Toit was crowned World Men’s 15s Player of the Year, becoming the first Springbok to win the accolade twice. The 32-year-old flanker previously claimed the honor in 2019, and this year’s triumph solidifies his legendary status in the sport.

Du Toit’s recognition capped an extraordinary evening for South African rugby, with seven Springboks earning spots in the World Rugby Men’s 15s Dream Team: Du Toit, Eben Etzebeth (lock), Cheslin Kolbe (wing), Ox Nche (prop), Malcolm Marx (hooker), and midfield stalwarts Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel.

Springboks Lead Global Recognition
The awards reflected a year of dominance for the Springboks, who achieved an 84.6% win rate and added titles such as the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, the Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate, the Freedom Cup, and the Prince William Cup to their trophy cabinet.

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander praised the team, stating:"This recognition is a testament to the hard work and resilience of our players, coaches, and management. Pieter-Steph’s achievement of being named World Player of the Year twice is extraordinary, and having seven Boks in the Dream Team underscores the strength of our squad."

Other Highlights from Monaco
Breakthrough Player of the Year: New Zealand’s Wallace Sititi edged out South African flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, showcasing the bright future of global rugby.
Coach of the Year: Jérôme Daret of France, who led the men’s sevens team to Olympic gold in Paris, received the honor.
Men’s Sevens Dream Team: Blitzboks captain Selvyn Davids represented South Africa in the elite lineup.
Rugby for All Award: SA Rugby’s The Bag That Builds initiative, which transforms tournament waste into building materials for housing, was celebrated for its impact on sustainability and community upliftment.
Du Toit’s Historic Achievement
Du Toit now joins an elite group of multiple-time winners, having been nominated alongside Kolbe, Etzebeth, and Ireland’s Caelan Doris. His incredible work rate, leadership, and versatility were pivotal to South Africa’s success, earning him this coveted title again.

Reflecting on the accolade, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus said: "Pieter-Steph embodies the spirit of this team. To have so many of our players honored at these awards speaks to their commitment and the unity within the squad. Rugby is a team sport, and it’s the collective effort that enables individuals to shine." Erasmus also highlighted the squad’s depth, with 50 players rotated during the season: "This achievement reflects the caliber of players we have and their ability to step up when called upon."

Du Toit’s triumph, alongside the collective achievements of the Springbok team, underscores a landmark year for South African rugby, Winning 9 out of their 11 games in 2024, including victories over the All Blacks, Ireland, England and Australia, further cementing their legacy on the global stage.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]