The World Rugby Awards 2024 took place in Monaco on Sunday, where the sport’s top talents were celebrated for their outstanding contributions in 2024. The prestigious event saw South Africa’s Pieter-Steph du Toit and England’s Ellie Kildunne scoop the top honors, while other players and coaches were recognized for their excellence across both the 15s and Sevens formats.
Men’s 15s Player of the Year: Pieter-Steph du Toit
Pieter-Steph du Toit was named the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year for 2024, marking his second victory in this category, having previously won in 2019. The Springbok flanker triumphed over teammates Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe, as well as Ireland’s Caelan Doris. Du Toit’s leadership and relentless performances were pivotal in South Africa’s victorious Rugby Championship campaign and their strong showing throughout the year.
Women’s 15s Player of the Year: Ellie Kildunne
Ellie Kildunne of England claimed the World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year award after an impressive series of performances. The England fullback’s speed, skill, and consistency were key to the Red Roses’ dominance in the women’s game. Kildunne narrowly beat teammate Alex Matthews to the award, with France’s Pauline Bourdon Sansus and Canada’s Alex Tessier also in contention.
Breakthrough Players of the Year
In the men’s category, New Zealand’s Wallace Sititi emerged as the Breakthrough Player of the Year. The dynamic back-rower was a revelation for the All Blacks, cementing his place in the starting lineup after a standout performance against the Springboks during the Rugby Championship.
The women’s breakthrough award went to Ireland’s Erin King, who impressed with her all-around skills and poise under pressure, outshining nominees such as England’s Maddie Feaunati and Australia’s Caitlyn Halse.
World Rugby Sevens Awards
While Antoine Dupont’s international XVs appearances were limited in 2024, he still made an impact by being named World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year. His decision to focus on the shorter format led to a gold medal for France at the Paris Olympics, proving the strategic move was a success.
Australia’s Maddison Levi claimed the Women’s Sevens Player of the Year award. Despite Australia’s Olympic disappointment, Levi’s performances in the 2024 SVNS Series and her role in the team’s championship win made her a deserving recipient.
Coach of the Year
France’s Jérôme Daret took home the World Rugby Coach of the Year award, having led France’s Sevens team to Olympic glory and an incredible season, including the first series title in 19 years. His success at the Olympics in Paris capped off a remarkable year for the French Sevens side. South Africa’s Rassie Erasmus, despite leading the Springboks to a Rugby Championship title, missed out on the award.
The Dream Team of the Year
The Dream Team for 2024 featured seven Springboks, showcasing the dominance of South African rugby. Pieter-Steph du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe, Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche, Damian de Allende, and Jesse Kriel all made the cut, highlighting their exceptional individual and collective contributions to South Africa’s success.
Winners at the World Rugby Awards 2024
- World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year: Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa)
- World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year: Ellie Kildunne (England)
- World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year: Antoine Dupont (France)
- World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year: Maddison Levi (Australia)
- World Rugby Men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year: Wallace Sititi (New Zealand)
- World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year: Erin King (Ireland)
- International Rugby Players Men’s Try of the Year: Nolann Le Garrec (France, vs England, Men’s Six Nations)
- International Rugby Players Women’s Try of the Year: Marine Ménager (France, vs Canada, WXV 1)
- International Rugby Players Special Merit Award: Vickii Cornborough (England)
- World Rugby Coach of the Year: Jérôme Daret (France)
Final Thoughts
The World Rugby Awards 2024 was a celebration of the sport’s finest athletes and coaches. Du Toit’s second Player of the Year accolade, Kildunne’s recognition, and Dupont’s Sevens success are just a few highlights of a memorable night. With standout performances across both the men’s and women’s games, rugby continues to thrive, with a bright future ahead for the sport globally.
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