The Greatest Rugby World Cup Icons in History

The Rugby World Cup, a tournament that has graced our screens and stadiums with breathtaking action and unforgettable moments. But who are the icons that have left an indelible mark on this grand stage of rugby excellence? In a spirited discussion on a recent BBC Sounds podcast, rugby legends Matt Dawson and Bryan Habana, along with rugby correspondent Chris Jones, came together to rank the top 10 icons in the tournament’s history. Here, we delve into their picks and celebrate these rugby legends.

1. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)

Iconic Moments: Jonah Lomu’s name resonates not just in the rugby world, but in the global sporting lexicon. Despite not winning a World Cup, Lomu’s thunderous performances in the 1995 and 1999 tournaments elevated him to the status of rugby’s first true global superstar. His record-tying 15 tries in World Cup history and his sheer power on the wing left an indelible mark on the sport.

Habana says: “Rugby’s first global superstar. South Africa tackling him in 1995 was a moment in itself. He blew mindsets across the world about rugby.”

Dawson adds: “At a time when the game was going professional, he was the hottest of properties the game has ever seen.”

2. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)

Iconic Moments: Richie McCaw, the embodiment of leadership and tenacity, led the All Blacks to back-to-back World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. A captain par excellence, he remains the first and only captain to achieve this feat. His dedication and ability to rise above adversity are etched in rugby folklore.

Habana admires: “To play the World Cup final in 2011 with a broken foot and to lift that trophy in 2015… Richie was at the level every aspiring rugby player should want to get to: Wanting to be the greatest of all time.”

3. Jonny Wilkinson (England)

Iconic Moments: England’s Jonny Wilkinson etched his name into rugby history with a drop-goal in the last minute of extra time during the 2003 World Cup final. His dramatic kick secured England’s victory over Australia. Four years later, despite battling injuries, Wilkinson played a pivotal role in guiding England to the final in Paris.

Dawson comments: “If you go to Australia, Jonny Wilkinson would be a bigger icon than Richie McCaw.”

4. Dan Carter (New Zealand)

Iconic Moments: Dan Carter’s four World Cup appearances culminated in a World Rugby Player of the Year award and a 2015 World Cup victory for New Zealand. His ability to capture the imagination of not just rugby enthusiasts but also the broader sporting public makes him an iconic figure.

Dawson reflects: “‘Icon’ for me means you don’t need to be into rugby or a fan – even if it is just a name, you are going to know of them, as they have that big a status.”

5. Siya Kolisi (South Africa)

Iconic Moments: Siya Kolisi etched his name into history as the first black South African captain to lift the Webb Ellis Trophy in 2019. Beyond his leadership on the field, his victory carried a deeper significance in uniting a nation. Kolisi aspires to emulate McCaw’s back-to-back World Cup titles as captain.

6. David Campese (Australia)

Iconic Moments: David Campese, the mercurial Australian wing, delivered standout performances in the 1991 World Cup, including an unforgettable moment when he ignored the New Zealand haka to warm up. His weaving run and no-look pass set up a memorable try.

Dawson reminisces: “If we are talking about this list in the early or mid-2000s, Campo would be very high up on it.”

7. Francois Pienaar (South Africa)

Iconic Moments: Francois Pienaar’s captaincy in the 1995 World Cup, culminating in receiving the trophy from Nelson Mandela, remains a symbol of unity and triumph for South Africa. He led the nation to glory on home soil.

8. Bryan Habana (South Africa)

Iconic Moments: Bryan Habana’s World Cup journey spanned three tournaments, with a remarkable eight tries in 2007, sharing the record for the most tries in a single tournament. His consistency and impact on the field make him a worthy addition to this list.

Dawson emphasizes: “Bryan needs to be on that list, not only for the 15 tries he scored in the World Cup, but plenty of tries that he set up and saved, and the longevity of his career to be able to do that consistently over three World Cups.”

9. Sonny Bill Williams (New Zealand)

Iconic Moments: Sonny Bill Williams, a rugby league convert, contributed to New Zealand’s World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. His act of giving his medal away to a young fan after the 2015 final exemplified humility and sportsmanship.

Habana recalls: “Sonny Bill was a star attraction everywhere he went… and didn’t divide opinion.”

10. Brian Lima (Samoa)

Iconic Moments: Brian Lima made history as the first player to participate in five World Cups, spanning an astonishing career from 1991 to 2007. His unforgettable hits and unwavering commitment on the field define his legacy.

Habana acknowledges: “The first player to play five World Cups. It’s some achievement to be mentioned as an icon from a nation that has never ever got past the quarter-final.”

These are the legends, the icons, and the heroes of the Rugby World Cup. Each one has left an indelible mark on the tournament’s storied history, captivating the hearts and minds of fans around the world. As you rank these moments and share them with your friends, remember the unforgettable feats of these rugby icons, who have transcended the sport and become household names in the world of sports and beyond.

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More about Rugby World Cup Icons

• Rugby World Cup Official Website
• BBC Sounds Podcast – Rugby World Cup Top 10s
• Jonah Lomu – Rugby’s Global Superstar
• Richie McCaw – The All Blacks’ Legendary Captain
• Jonny Wilkinson’s Iconic Drop Goal
• Dan Carter – A Rugby Icon
• Siya Kolisi – South Africa’s Historic Captain
• David Campese – A Rugby Legend
• Francois Pienaar – A Captain for Unity
• Bryan Habana’s World Cup Journey
• Sonny Bill Williams – A Star of Rugby
• Brian Lima – Samoa’s Rugby Warrior