Du Toit Stands Tall Among Rugby’s Best
No other South African had ever pulled it off—Pieter-Steph du Toit just became the first to win the World Rugby Player of the Year award twice. His name stands alongside some of rugby’s all-time greats after the announcement at the 2024 World Rugby Awards gala in Monaco. It’s no fluke: du Toit’s performance during 2024 was electric. From the first whistle of the Rugby Championship to the final blow of the Autumn Nations Series, he was everywhere.
His second win bookends his first from 2019, and both came after seasons where du Toit simply never let up. This time, he anchored the Springbok pack through a Rugby Championship win, marching through rivals with a mix of grit, explosive tackles, and smart ball-carrying. During the Autumn Nations Series, South Africa’s run proved just as dominant—they swept past Scotland, neutralized Wales, and outmuscled England, notching statement victories that reminded the world the Boks are still a force. Du Toit stamped his authority in that England match, scoring his fourth try of the year and setting the tone in a tense 29-20 triumph.
The award didn’t come easy. Du Toit beat out other global powerhouses for the honor. Fellow Springboks like Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe were also in the conversation, along with Ireland’s standout Caelan Doris. The fact that so many South Africans were in the running says a lot about the collective power of this Springbok squad.
Springboks Dominate Dream Team as New Faces Shine
If you’re looking for evidence of South Africa’s current rugby dominance, check the 2024 Dream Team list. The Springboks stacked the roster: seven World Cup winners earned a spot. Along with du Toit, familiar names like Etzebeth, Kolbe, Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, Damian de Allende, and Jesse Kriel made the cut—each bringing their own highlight reels and game-changing moments. Their physicality, teamwork, and tactical discipline set them apart, making them nightmares for any opposition.
Yet, rugby’s future stars are crashing onto the scene too. New Zealand’s Wallace Sititi claimed the Men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year award. The young forward had a season to remember, surprising seasoned internationals with his raw strength and startling pace. Meanwhile, France’s Jérôme Daret lifted the Coach of the Year trophy after steering his men’s sevens squad to Olympic gold in Paris.
You can’t talk about Springbok success without mentioning Rassie Erasmus, who masterminded their campaign as Director of Rugby. Erasmus pointed out that 50 players rotated through the squad in 2024, keeping everyone fresh and competitive. His rotation policy doesn’t just make for happier players—it gives South Africa unmatched squad depth. In a sport where injuries can derail a season, having that kind of bench is gold.
Big names, new talent, and a strategy that gets the best out of everyone—South African rugby is thriving. Du Toit’s double win isn’t just a personal achievement. It feels like a milestone for a team built to last.
