World Rugby Player of the Year Pieter-Steph du Toit Credits the Springbok Environment for his Success

Springbok loose forward, Pieter-Steph du Toit was announced by World Rugby as the Men's 15s Player of the Year for the second time, receiving his first back in 2019. du Toit becomes only the fourth player in history to win the World Rugby Player of the Year award twice, cementing his place among legends like Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, and Beauden Barrett.

"We got a saying in the Springboks, we don't count our days we make the days count. I have been with the Springbok team for quite a while now. The life lessons I learnt there especially from the coaching staff is quite vital, not just in sport but in life [too]. Its something that I am trying to do, live with that philosophy throughout my whole life," he told SportsBoom.com. 

"I always try and give my best when I put on the Springbok jersey and any other jersey that I play in...you never know when it is your last game."

This mindset of making each day count reflects not only in du Toit's on-field performances but also in the Springboks' broader team culture, emphasising growth and resilience.

Honouring Teammates: Eben and Cheslin's Impact

du Toit was 1 of 3 Springboks to be nominated. He was joined by Lock Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe.

"To have those guys there with me is a huge honour. Just look at all the records Eben has broken and the talent Cheslin has, him being able to change the game. Just to be named with those guys is a huge honour and privilege. I'm grateful and defiantly a blessing from the skies that I am here at the moment."

Springboks Dominate World XV Dream Team

Seven Springboks feature in the World Rugby Dream XV, which include Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, Eben Etzebeth, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Cheslin Kolbe, Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel. This achievement rounds up the already successful Springbok season with individuals being rewarded for their consistent performances throughout the year.

"It's really awesome to see my teammates there. It's great to get the recognition, but it's also a team sport, and can't do it without your teammates. To be in the Springbok team, it's a huge honour and privilege to represent the Springboks and to have those guys around me is unbelievable."

"To see the quality of South African Rugby at the moment makes me happy. Springbok Rugby is in a good spot at the moment."

Ox Nche: A Snub Worth Discussing

Nche who had outstanding contributions both with the Sharks and the Springboks. Had been a consistent feature in the Springbok side. No Prop has ever been nominated for World Rugby Player of the Year and some would argue Nche would've been the perfect candidate for a nomination.

"It makes it very difficult for awards like these and it's the options of certain individuals. They have a checklist they have to go through to make these decisions. If it was my personal decision, I would pick him [Nche nominated]."

Ox Nche's omission highlights the ongoing debate about how individual accolades are awarded in rugby. Despite no prop ever being nominated for the Player of the Year award, Nche’s ability to dominate scrums and contribute significantly in open play makes a compelling case for recognition.

"I read somewhere in the news, we [Springboks Management] had picked 52 guys from this whole season and only 3 guys could be here. Just shows the character of the Springbok team at the moment."

As South African rugby continues to thrive, Pieter-Steph du Toit’s recognition and the team’s collective achievements showcase the strength, depth, and unity of the Springboks—a legacy that inspires pride and hope for the future.