In a stunning upset, former Cheetahs rugby player Rayno Nel has become the first African athlete to win the World’s Strongest Man competition, edging out three-time champion Tom Staltman in a dramatic finish in Sacramento, California.
The 30-year-old South African, who only began training in strongman events two years ago, claimed victory by a razor-thin margin of half a point—marking the first time a rookie has won the title since 1997. His triumph also makes him the first champion from outside Europe and North America in the competition’s history.
From Rugby to Strongman Stardom
Nel, a former rugby player turned engineer, left the sport in 2019 before discovering his passion for strength athletics in 2023. Despite having no prior experience in powerlifting or strongman events, he quickly rose through the ranks, shocking the sport’s elite.
In an exclusive interview with Morning Live Sport, Nel admitted he never expected to win so soon. “My plan was to compete for the title in 2027,” he said. “To do it in my first year is unbelievable.”
A Grueling Battle for the Title
The competition came down to the wire, with Nel holding a seven-point lead after the first day of finals. However, a tough second day nearly cost him the title before he rallied to secure victory. His standout performance included a staggering 490kg (1,080 lbs) deadlift—just shy of Eddie Hall’s world record.
Despite his rapid success, Nel remains humble, crediting his coach, Terrence, and his “naive” approach to the sport. “I didn’t know where the limits were, so I just lifted what others did,” he said.
What’s Next for the New Champion?
Nel has no plans to slow down, with six major competitions lined up for the year, including the Strongman Champions League final in Sun City, South Africa. “There’s still a lot more to do in strongman,” he said.
He also hopes to inspire others in Africa to take up the sport. “Strongman welcomes everyone—age, size, it doesn’t matter. If you love competition, you’ll find a home here.”
As the new World’s Strongest Man, Nel has not only etched his name in history but also put South Africa—and the continent—on the map in one of the world’s most grueling sports.
