A former rugby player from the Northern Cape province of South Africa broke all the headlines this week when he claimed his country’s first-ever victory in the World’s Strongest Man competition.
His feat was made all the more impressive when it materialised that he had only been training specifically for the sport for a little over two years.
Prior to his weightlifting success, Rayno Nel enjoyed a brief rugby career playing at flanker for the Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.
“Rugby was what I thought I would do for my sport career,” Nel told USA Today after his landmark victory.
“I didn’t think I’d do any sport ever again. But I always had this competitive side to me, so when I stopped playing rugby, I knew I needed to do something competitive. That’s just who I am.”
The perfect build for powerlifting
Weighing 326 pounds and standing at 6’3″, Nel only started competing in strongman competitions in 2023 when he emerged victorious in his first ever showing at South Africa’s Strongest Man. Such were his impressive performances over the next couple of years, the 30-year-old was eventually granted a wildcard invitation to the World’s.
Despite still being classed as a ‘rookie’, Nel secured the win with just half a point to spare over his nearest rival. He clinched the victory right at the death as he secured a third place finish in the Atlas Stones, stating: “I just tried to stay focused and do as much damage limitation as possible.”
Winning the global competition on his debut was no small feat, in fact, he even broke further records, including being the first man from outside Europe or North America to take the title in the competition’s 48-year history.
Speaking about the impact this victory will have back home, Nel added: “To represent (South Africa) in any way whatsoever, it feels surreal. I mean, we’re a small country with a lot of struggles. To have something like this I know means a lot to my people.”
And what an impact it’s had. Not only have the media latched onto this incredible achievement, but fans all around the world have wanted to know more about this natural born athlete.
Fan reaction to Rayno Nel’s victory
One X user Captain Springbok – a keen South African rugby fan – reflected on the impressive nature commitment it took to secure the WSM title while still maintaining a full-time job.
“Rayno Nel was doing Worlds Strongest Man as a side mission while still having a full time job! All the other athletes do strong man full time! No one gave him a chance! What a legend!”
The South African government even made mention to him on their official X account, saying:
“HISTORY MADE! Congratulations to Rayno Nel, Africa’s first-ever World’s Strongest Man champion! With a jaw-dropping 0.5-point victory, South Africa’s powerhouse shocked the world and claimed the crown in one of the biggest upsets in WSM history! Africa stands proud!”
Others added: “Wow, Kudos to the World’s Strongest Man!!! He could effortlessly push South Africa out of the socio-economic crisis it’s facing – if he wanted to!”
“Our boy was an Underdog coming in, up against former Champions even and he still got it done.”
“We specialize in winning. No DNA, just RSA.”
Another concluded: “We are winning left right centre, I think some countries are now even jealous. Everyday we wake up to the news that we have won something. This should unite us.”
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/fans-react-after-former-currie-cup-player-wins-worlds-strongest-man-with-just-two-years-of-training
