Get ready for a thrilling sports story! The world's best player award has a new champion, and it's a controversial one!
Pieter-Steph du Toit, a Springbok star, has been crowned the 2025 World Rugby Player of the Year by the esteemed French publication Midi Olympique. This achievement marks du Toit's second win, having previously claimed the title five years ago. But here's where it gets interesting: du Toit's victory ends Antoine Dupont's remarkable four-year reign over the prestigious 'Oscar Monde' award.
Dupont, the France captain, had dominated the vote from 2021 to 2024, but an injury during the Six Nations opened the door for du Toit's triumph. With this win, du Toit joins an elite group of South African players, including Bakkies Botha and Victor Matfield, who jointly won the award in 2009. Other notable winners include Dan Carter, Thierry Dusautoir, and Richie McCaw.
And this is the part most people miss: the award is decided by Midi Olympique readers, adding a unique twist to the selection process. It's a true testament to du Toit's skills and popularity among rugby enthusiasts.
But what does this mean for the world of rugby? Will Dupont's injury be a turning point in his career? And how will du Toit's win impact the upcoming France-Springbok grudge match? These questions and more are sure to spark lively debates among rugby fans. So, what do you think? Is du Toit's win a well-deserved triumph, or does Dupont's injury cloud the victory? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!
