Eben Etzebeth Nominated for A Historic Nomination for South Africa’s Towering Lock
South African rugby star Eben Etzebeth has been nominated for the prestigious World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year award, an impressive 11 years after his first nomination in 2013. The Springbok lock, widely regarded as one of the most dominant forwards in world rugby, has been a key figure in South Africa’s remarkable performances throughout 2024, including their historic Rugby World Cup victory.
Etzebeth’s nomination underscores his longevity and consistent excellence in a sport where physicality and endurance are paramount. The 32-year-old joins other world-class players on the shortlist, solidifying his place among rugby’s elite.
The Journey: From Rising Star to Established Icon
Who: Eben Etzebeth, born in Cape Town, South Africa, made his international debut for the Springboks in 2012. Over the years, he has amassed over 120 caps, becoming a cornerstone of the team’s forward pack.
What: The nomination recognizes Etzebeth’s standout performances in 2024, particularly during the Rugby Championship and the Rugby World Cup in France. He played a pivotal role in South Africa’s campaign, showcasing leadership, physical dominance, and technical skill.
Where: The announcement was made by World Rugby in Dublin, Ireland, ahead of the annual awards ceremony scheduled for November 26, 2024.
When: This marks Etzebeth’s second nomination, with his first occurring in 2013, just a year after his debut. The 11-year gap highlights his ability to sustain world-class performances over an extended period.
Why: Etzebeth’s resilience, adaptability, and contributions to South Africa’s success have earned him this recognition. His imposing presence in the lineout, relentless work rate, and ability to inspire teammates set him apart as one of the finest locks in modern rugby.
A Stellar 2024 Campaign
Etzebeth’s nomination comes on the back of an extraordinary year for South African rugby. At the Rugby World Cup, he delivered crucial performances in high-pressure matches, including a game-changing try in the quarterfinals against France.
His physicality in the scrums and breakdowns, coupled with his leadership on and off the field, made him indispensable to the Springboks. Captain Siya Kolisi hailed Etzebeth as “a warrior who gives everything for the jersey.”
Beyond his on-field contributions, Etzebeth is celebrated for his sportsmanship and commitment to growing the game globally. He has also been active in mentoring younger players, further cementing his legacy as a role model in the rugby community.
The Implications of a Second Nomination
Etzebeth’s recognition reflects not only his individual brilliance but also the strength of South African rugby on the global stage. His nomination comes alongside other elite players, showcasing the diversity and competitiveness of international rugby.
Winning the award would make him the first South African to claim the honor since Pieter-Steph du Toit in 2019. It would also highlight the enduring dominance of South African forwards, often regarded as the backbone of their rugby success.
What’s Next?
The World Rugby Awards ceremony will take place on November 26, 2024, where the winner of the Men’s 15s Player of the Year will be announced. Regardless of the outcome, Etzebeth’s nomination cements his place among the legends of the sport.
As South Africa looks to build on their World Cup triumph, players like Etzebeth will remain crucial in guiding the next generation of Springboks. His story serves as an inspiration to athletes worldwide, proving that dedication and resilience can sustain greatness over time.
