Bok Brilliance: Springbok Star Pieter-Steph du Toit Crowned Global Player of the Year by French Publication

Pieter-Steph du Toit Crowned Best Player in the World by Midi Olympique

Springbok stalwart Pieter-Steph du Toit has added another major international accolade to his illustrious career, after being named the best rugby player in the world by respected French publication Midi Olympique.

The recognition follows his recent triumph as the 2024 World Rugby Player of the Year, making it the second time he has claimed the honour, having first done so in 2019.

Du Toit Ends Antoine Dupont’s Four-Year Dominance

The 33-year-old’s latest award comes directly from votes cast by Midi Olympique readers. His victory brings an end to French captain Antoine Dupont’s impressive four-year winning streak of the coveted ‘Oscar Monde’ title. Dupont’s injury during this year’s Six Nations tournament is believed to have influenced the shift in public sentiment.

Du Toit’s influence for both the Springboks and his club has been central to South Africa’s continued dominance on the international stage, reinforcing his status as one of the finest forwards of the modern era.

Fourth South African to Secure the Prestigious Honour

Du Toit now becomes the fourth South African to receive Midi Olympique’s highest individual award. He joins a distinguished list of Springbok greats:

Bakkies Botha & Victor Matfield (joint winners in 2009)
Cheslin Kolbe (winner in 2019)

Other notable previous recipients include Dan Carter (twice), Richie McCaw, Thierry Dusautoir, Ma’a Nonu, Leigh Halfpenny, and Maro Itoje — showcasing the award’s global prestige.

Rising Talent Also Recognised

It was also a special night for emerging players, with France U20s hooker Lyam Akrab being named Oscar Espoir (Best Young Player). The Montpellier forward continues to rise rapidly after being crowned U20 Six Nations Player of the Tournament earlier this year.

Social Media Reacts

Rugby fans have widely celebrated Pieter-Steph du Toit’s latest accolade, praising him as one of the greatest flankers of the modern game. Many supporters said the honour was well deserved, highlighting his exceptional work ethic, consistency and leadership on the field.

Here are some of the comments:

@LaniRefiti;

One of the best blindside flankers in the modern era.

@BruceLoosegoose;

Rightly deserved

@CraigVee;

We have always know this…PSdT will go down as an all-time great of Bok rugby as well as world rugby!

@Murdoch_123;

He is a LEGEND!

@ZunguMthoko:

Well deserved honestly the Mans work ethic is insane