The Top 20 rugby players of the 21th century: Agree or disagree?

The modern era of rugby has produced an extraordinary array of talent who have reshaped the sport at every level.

Apr 21, 2026 - 15:40

The Top 20 rugby players of the 21th century: Agree or disagree?

Rugby’s modern era has produced an extraordinary array of talent – leaders, workhorses, and magicians who have reshaped the sport at every level.

From the tactical brilliance of Dan Carter to the leadership of Richie McCaw, the 21st century has seen players elevate rugby into a faster, more dynamic and globally competitive game.

Explosive game-breakers

These are athletes who not only dominated on the field but influenced how rugby is coached, analysed and understood.

The modern game has also celebrated explosive game-breakers like Bryan Habana and Cheslin Kolbe, whose pace and finishing ability have thrilled fans and changed attacking strategies.

Meanwhile, players such as Eben Etzebeth and Alun Wyn Jones have embodied the physical and mental demands of forward play, setting new standards for consistency and durability.

Leadership has remained a defining trait of the era.

Figures like Siya Kolisi have transcended the sport, using rugby as a platform for unity and inspiration, while guiding their teams to the highest honours.

At the same time, innovation at halfback has been driven by players like Antoine Dupont, whose all-round skillset reflects the evolution of the modern scrumhalf into a complete playmaker.

Together, these players represent more than just individual excellence – they define an era where rugby has become faster, smarter and more inclusive, captivating audiences around the world and continuing to evolve with each generation.

Thankless task

Attempting to rank the Top 20 greatest players of the 21st century is a thankless task – and one that will no doubt lead to heated debate.

Remember, the 21st century started on 1 January 2021.

Some players where nearing the end of the careers at the stage while others weren’t even born (it’s true!).

Meanwhile, legends like Jonah Lomu would walk into an ‘All time Top 20 list’, but the All Blacks winger only played a handful of matches this century.

So, without further ado, our list of the Top 20 players of the 21st century:

Rank	Player	Country
1	Richie McCaw	New Zealand
2	Dan Carter	New Zealand
3	Jonny Wilkinson	England
4	Brian O’Driscoll	Ireland
5	Sergio Parisse	Italy
6	Shane Williams	Wales
7	Martin Johnson	England
8	Pieter-Steph du Toit	South Africa
9	Bryan Habana	South Africa
10	Eben Etzebeth	South Africa
11	George Gregan	Australia
12	Paul O’Connell	Ireland
13	Kieran Read	New Zealand
14	David Pocock	Australia
15	Siya Kolisi	South Africa
16	Antoine Dupont	France
17	Richard Hill	England
18	George Smith	Australia
19	Alun Wyn Jones	Wales
20	Ma’a Nonu	New Zealand