Ardie Savea, the dynamic New Zealand lose forward, was honored as World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year, despite his team’s defeat in the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday.
Savea clinched the title over other formidable contenders: Irish centre Bundee Aki, South African lock Eben Etzebeth, and France captain Antoine Dupont, a previous awardee of the prestigious accolade.
This victory marked Savea as the 11th All-Black player to secure this esteemed award, initially established in 2001. Having been a finalist in 2019, Savea’s recognition came on the heels of an outstanding season, contributing significantly to New Zealand’s triumph in the Rugby Championship and their subsequent journey to the World Cup final, which culminated in a narrow 12-11 defeat against the Springboks.
The esteemed Irish coach, Andy Farrell, was crowned World Rugby Coach of the Year, while the electric All Blacks winger, Mark Tele’a, secured the Breakthrough Player of the Year accolade.
Accepting the honour, Savea expressed gratitude and humility. “It’s extraordinary. I am very blessed and grateful to be up here. I guess for an individual to stand out it’s based on the team’s foundation,” he stated.
He also humbly acknowledged his efforts, mentioning, “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, fulfil the black jersey and give my best.”
While reflecting on the World Cup loss, Savea praised the team’s journey under coach Foz (Ian Foster), highlighting the team’s resilience and expressing his honour in representing the All Blacks.
The ceremony also acknowledged various other exceptional contributions within the rugby community, honouring achievements in sevens rugby, coaching, refereeing, and the induction of notable individuals into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.
By ESPN
