Guinness Six Nations Player of the Championship Alun Wyn Jones has another achievement to add to his ever-growing list, as he was named the world’s best player by Rugby World magazine.
The Wales captain led his side to a third Grand Slam of his career at this year’s Championship as Warren Gatland’s men broke their record for consecutive Test wins along the way.
The lock saw off competition from fellow Guinness Six Nations stars Mako Vunipola, who finished third, and compatriot Liam Williams, who was fifth, in the top 100 list, while France half back Pauline Bourdon was the highest-ranked women’s player on the list, named at 11th.
The award was voted for by Rugby World magazine’s editorial team along with Fiji’s Olympic gold medal winning sevens coach Ben Ryan, Wasps Ladies director of rugby Giselle Mather and broadcaster Ross Harries, and, for the panel, there was only ever going to be one choice for the top spot.
“He’s like superglue for any team he plays for – unbreakable in the toughest of moments – and that simultaneously elevates those around him too,” said Ryan.
“He leads from the front with the highest level of guile, intellect and bravery that is a rarity even among the greats.”
