In a thrilling finale, Rayno Nel narrowly defeated three-time champion, Tom Stoltman, by just half a point to claim the coveted title.
By Abioye Damilare Samson
South Africa’s former rugby player, Rayno Nel has etched his name in the history books by becoming the first African champion and the first rookie winner since 1997 at the World’s Strongest Man competition held in Sacramento, California. In a thrilling finale, the 30-year-old former rugby player narrowly defeated three-time champion, Tom Stoltman, by just half a point to claim the coveted title.
Standing 6’3″ and weighing 326 pounds, Nel dominated the opening day of the finals but faced his toughest tests during the final events: the 531-pound Flintstone Barbell and the Atlas Stones. Despite these being his weakest disciplines, Nel managed a vital third-place finish in the Atlas Stones, securing the points needed to win.
This historic victory marks the first time in the 48-year history of the competition that the title has gone to a competitor from outside Europe or North America. Rayno Nel, who only began his strongman journey three years ago after a rugby career, credited his success to rigorous training at Terence Bosman’s facility in South Africa.
Reflecting on his win in an interview with USA TODAY Sports, Nel said, “I’m just over the moon. 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”.
Rayno Nel’s victory is a historic moment for Africa, inspiring many across the continent to push boundaries in global competitive sports.