In a glittering ceremony at the iconic Opéra Garnier in Paris, New Zealand’s Ardie Savea was named the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in partnership with Mastercard. The accolade was bestowed upon Savea for his outstanding performances, showcasing his remarkable skills and dedication to the game throughout the Rugby World Cup 2023.
The ceremony, held just hours after South Africa’s historic victory over New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final at Stade de France, celebrated the best of rugby, honoring players, coaches, and contributors who have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Savea, the dynamic number eight, expressed his gratitude for the award, acknowledging the collective effort of his team. « I wouldn’t say I’m in the same category as those guys (previous winners of the award from New Zealand) – they’re legends, but I just try and go out there, fulfill the black jersey, and give my best. That’s all I can do, and I have 14 other brothers next to me doing the same thing, » Savea humbly stated.
The evening also witnessed the induction of five Rugby World Cup legends into the World Rugby Hall of Fame. These distinguished individuals include Dan Carter (New Zealand), Thierry Dusautoir (France), George Smith (Australia), Juan Martín Hernández (Argentina), and Bryan Habana (South Africa).
Andy Farrell, the skilled coach who led Ireland to a Six Nations Grand Slam and a top spot in the World Rugby Men’s Rankings powered by Capgemini for 15 months, was honored as the World Rugby Coach of the Year. His strategic brilliance and ability to nurture talent were key factors in Ireland’s success.
Additionally, rising star Mark Tele’a, the promising winger from New Zealand, was named the World Rugby Men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year in partnership with Tudor. Tele’a’s explosive performances and six tries in nine tests for the All Blacks highlighted his immense potential on the international stage.
The ceremony also recognized outstanding achievements in the rugby community, with awards such as the Rugby for All Award, presented to SOS Kit Aid from the United Kingdom, and the World Rugby Referee Award, bestowed upon David McHugh from Ireland for his dedication and contribution to the game as an international referee and mentor.
As the rugby world celebrated these exceptional talents and contributors, the stage is set for the sport’s future, filled with anticipation for the remarkable moments and achievements yet to come.
Full list of World Rugby Awards winners
- World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in partnership with Mastercard – Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
- World Rugby Coach of the Year – Andy Farrell (Ireland)
- World Rugby Men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year in partnership with Tudor – Mark Tele’a (New Zealand)
- World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year in partnership with HSBC – Rodrigo Isgro (Argentina)
- World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year in partnership with HSBC – Tyla Nathan-Wong (New Zealand)
- World Rugby Referee Award – David McHugh (Ireland)
- Vernon Pugh Award for Distinguished Service – George Nijaradze (Georgia)
- Rugby for All Award – SOS Kit Aid
- International Rugby Players Special Merit Award – John Smit (South Africa)
- International Rugby Players Men’s Try of the Year – Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
- World Rugby Hall of Fame inductees: Daniel Carter (New Zealand), Thierry Dusautoir (France), George Smith (Australia), Juan Martín Hernández (Argentina), Bryan Habana (South Africa).
