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The Springboks are looking to celebrate their historic Rugby World Cup triumph once
again at the Laureus World Sports Awards.
South Africa’s national rugby union team headlines four nominations for the country at
this year’s prestigious honours. The Springboks are up for World Team of the Year after
defeating New Zealand last October to become the first team ever to win four World
Cups.
Captain Siya Kolisi is also nominated for World Comeback of the Year. Kolisi underwent
knee surgery just months before the tournament but remarkably recovered to lead
South Africa to glory. His return from injury to hoist the Webb Ellis Cup embodied the
Springboks’ fighting spirit.
Kolisi joins a stacked field for Comeback of the Year including gymnast Simone Biles
and soccer player Sébastien Haller. The Laureus Awards highlight both individual
athletic achievements and inspiring triumphs of the human spirit.
The Springboks face tough competition for Team of the Year as well. Fellow nominees
include World Cup champions Spain women’s national football team and basketball’s
German national team.
South Africa’s four total nominations lead all countries. The winners will be announced
on April 22 after voting by the Laureus World Sports Academy. The Academy includes
69 legendary athletes across various sports.
The Springboks won their previous Laureus World Team of the Year award in 2020
following their first World Cup title in 12 years. They will look to repeat against elite
global competition. But just getting nominated again validates their historic World Cup
run.
For Kolisi, his return from knee surgery to World Cup glory represents an incredible
personal journey. His Laureus nomination puts a fitting capper on a remarkable year for
the flanker. Both he and the Springboks have made South Africa proud.
