This latest award came at the World Rugby Awards in Monaco. The French talisman took the sevens world by storm in 2024, delivering on his star billing by leading France Sevens to an HSBC SVNS Championship and an unforgettable Olympic gold medal in Paris, a performance which The Guardian described as "[not] only orchestrated by Antoine Dupont, it was conceived, composed and performed by him too". His seamless adaptation to rugby sevens is a testament to his extraordinary versatility and athletic brilliance.
Already a household name in rugby union with three Guinness Men's Six Nations Player of the Championship titles to his name, Dupont returned to the XVs format with equal aplomb during the 2024 Autumn Nations Series. Under his leadership, France secured a clean sweep this month, including a landmark third consecutive victory over New Zealand, further solidifying their status as one of the world’s outstanding sides. Dupont’s ability to dominate in two formats of the game within the same calendar year elevates his standing as one of rugby’s most complete and iconic players.
For Dupont, this year has been the perfect antidote to the crushing low of France's single-point quarter-final exit at their home World Cup in 2023. From his electric playmaking ability to his resilience and tactical intelligence, Dupont has redefined what it means to be a modern rugby player. With 2025 offering new challenges, including another Championship which begins on 31st January against Wales, Dupont’s star shows no sign of dimming. His unparalleled achievements in 2024 have secured his place among the very best in rugby history.
Antoine Dupont’s extraordinary achievements this year are the culmination of years of sustained excellence that have seen him rise to the pinnacle of world rugby. Earlier this year, Dupont was awarded the prestigious Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest civilian accolade, in recognition of outstanding contributions to French sport.
His success extends beyond the international stage. Dupont steered Toulouse to a domestic and European double last season, captaining the side to victory in both the Top 14 and the Champions Cup. In the European final, Dupont’s vision and precision were instrumental as Toulouse overcame La Rochelle, while his leadership in the domestic league cemented his status as the beating heart of his club, having been away on sevens duty during periods of the season.
Also in the running for the Men's Sevens Player of the Year award were Dupont's France teammate Aaron Grandidier Nkanang, London born and bred, who scored four tries at the Olympics, and Ireland's Terry Kennedy, who won the award in 2022.
