2024 Planet Rugby Readers’ Awards Summary
The annual Planet Rugby Readers’ Awards celebrated the standout performers in rugby across six major categories, based on public votes. Here’s a breakdown of this year’s winners:
Men’s Player of the Year
- Winner: Ox Nche (South Africa)
The Springboks prop dominated the category with 37% of the votes, ahead of teammate Pieter-Steph du Toit (28%). Despite being overlooked by World Rugby’s official nominations, Nche’s performances earned him widespread recognition.
Women’s Player of the Year
- Winner: Ellie Kildunne (England)
With a stunning 53% of the vote, Kildunne was the clear favorite after an incredible year where she scored 14 tries in 10 Tests. She outpaced France’s Pauline Bourdon Sansus (16%) and Ireland’s Aoife Wafer (14%).
Breakthrough Player of the Year
- Winner: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (South Africa)
The South African fly-half claimed 47% of the vote, edging out New Zealand’s Wallace Sititi (41%). The remaining three nominees saw significantly lower vote shares, with Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s composure and skill earning him top honors.
Coach of the Year
- Winner: Rassie Erasmus (South Africa)
The Springboks’ director of rugby captured a landslide victory with 86% of the votes, reflecting his transformative influence on the team’s success. Ugo Mola of Toulouse came in second with just 7%.
International Team of the Year
- Winner: South Africa
With 86% of the votes, the Springboks were celebrated for their stellar year, highlighted by an 11-2 win-loss record and a Rugby Championship title. The remaining nominees (Red Roses, France, Ireland, All Blacks) were far behind with single-digit percentages.
Club Team of the Year
- Winner: Toulouse (France)
Following their Top 14 and Champions Cup double, Toulouse secured 53% of the vote, beating Glasgow Warriors (36%). Other nominees like the Blues, Northampton Saints, and Vannes trailed with minimal shares.
These results underscore the dominant year South African rugby had, with multiple awards reflecting their excellence at both individual and team levels. Meanwhile, England’s Ellie Kildunne showcased the growing prominence of women’s rugby globally.