The Most Famous Rugby Player in South Africa, Ranked

Choose the rugby player you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 10, 2024 07:15
Ranking the most celebrated rugby players in South Africa has always presented a unique challenge, given the sheer talent and diverse accomplishments across the players. Acknowledging the expertise and the excitement they bring to the field helps new fans understand the sport's dynamics and offers seasoned enthusiasts historical insights and a refreshing perspective on the game they adore. By casting votes for those individuals they believe truly stand out, users directly contribute to a living record of success and skill in South African rugby. This democratic approach not only engenders a feeling of community and shared passion among rugby fans but also ensures the accuracy and current relevance of the ranking. Each vote can change the course of how sporting excellence is celebrated and remembered.

Who Is the Most Famous Rugby Player in South Africa?

  1. 1
    48
    votes
    Siya Kolisi is as the first black captain of the South African rugby team, Kolisi has become a symbol of hope and progress for the country. He also led the Springboks to victory in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
    Siya Kolisi in other rankings
  2. 2
    33
    votes
    Bryan Habana is as one of the greatest wingers in rugby history, Habana holds the record for most tries scored in a single Rugby World Cup tournament.
  3. 3
    25
    votes
    Faf de Klerk is as the scrumhalf for the Springboks, de Klerk played a key role in the team's 2019 World Cup win, known for his tenacity and defensive prowess.
    Faf de Klerk in other rankings
  4. 4
    16
    votes
    Victor Matfield is as one of the greatest locks in rugby history, Matfield played a key role in the Springboks' 2007 World Cup win and has been described as one of the most intelligent players in the sport.
  5. 5
    11
    votes
    Joost van der Westhuizen
    Stemoc · CC BY-SA 3.0
    Joost van der Westhuizen - as one of the greatest scrumhalves in rugby history, van der Westhuizen played over 80 tests for the Springboks and was known for his speed and attacking flair.
  6. 6
    11
    votes
    Bakkies Botha
    Blackcat · Public domain
    Bakkies Botha is as one of the toughest and most physical locks in rugby history, Botha was a key member of the Springboks' 2007 World Cup winning team.
  7. 7
    15
    votes
    Schalk Burger is as a flanker for the Springboks, Burger was known for his aggressive style of play and physicality on the field. He was a member of the team that won the 2007 World Cup.
  8. 8
    8
    votes
    Percy Montgomery - as one of the greatest fullbacks in rugby history, Montgomery played over 100 tests for the Springboks and was known for his accurate kicking and ability to score tries.
  9. 9
    9
    votes
    Jean de Villiers is as a centre for the Springboks, de Villiers played over 100 tests for the team and was known for his leadership on and off the field. He also played a key role in the team's 2007 World Cup win.
  10. 10
    7
    votes
    André Joubert is as a fullback for the Springboks, Joubert played over 80 tests for the team and was known for his speed and attacking abilities. He was a member of the team that won the 1995 World Cup.

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Ranking factors for famous rugby player

  1. International Achievements
    The player's success in international competitions, such as World Cups, Tri-Nations/Rugby Championship, and British and Irish Lions tours.
  2. Domestic Achievements
    The player's achievements in domestic leagues, such as Super Rugby and Currie Cup.
  3. Rugby Skills and Performance
    Consider the player's skills, technique, and overall performance on the field, including try-scoring ability, tackling, kicking, and game management.
  4. Longevity and Consistency
    Evaluate the player's longevity and consistency of performance throughout their career, taking into account the number of years they have played at a high level.
  5. Popularity and Fan Support
    Consider the player's popularity and support from fans, including social media following, endorsement deals, and overall reputation within the rugby community.
  6. Impact on the Game
    Assess the player's influence on the game itself, such as their playing style, strategic contributions, and impact on future generations of players.
  7. Cultural and Social Impact
    Take into account the player's cultural significance and impact off the field, including their role in promoting and representing South Africa's diverse rugby culture.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous rugby player in South Africa. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or rugby player is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2608 views
  • 174 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each rugby player once every 24 hours. The rank of each rugby player is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous rugby player in south africa

South Africa is a country that is passionate about rugby, and the sport has a rich history in the country. It is no surprise that the country has produced some of the world's most famous rugby players. From the likes of Francois Pienaar, who captained the Springboks to their 1995 Rugby World Cup victory, to the more recent star player Siya Kolisi, South Africa has a long list of rugby legends. However, the question remains: who is the most famous rugby player in South Africa? With so many greats to choose from, it's a tough call. Let's explore some of the top contenders and their achievements on the field.

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