Blitzbok baller Tristan Leyds nominated for Player of the Year

By SABC Sport
1st June 2026

Springbok Sevens superstar Tristan Leyds has been nominated for the Men’s Sevens Player of the Year Award.

The annual awards celebrate the outstanding individual performers from across the HSBC SVNS 2026 season, recognising excellence on and off the field following another thrilling year of international rugby sevens competition.

Three players have been shortlisted in each of the four major categories, with the winners set to be announced in Bordeaux following the conclusion of the HSBC SVNS World Championship Final.

Men's SVNS Player of the Year

Henry Hutchison (Australia)

Tristan Leyds (South Africa)

Vuiviwa Naduvalo (Fiji)

Women's SVNS Player of the Year

Maddison Levi (Australia)

Jorja Miller (New Zealand)

Ariana Ramsey (USA)

Women's SVNS Rookie of the Year

Anaick Konyi (France)

Kennedi Stevenson (Canada)

Tahna Wilfley (USA)

Men's SVNS Rookie of the Year

Kele Lasaqa (New Zealand)

Harry Wilson (Auslia)

Finley Lloyd-Gilmour (Great Britain)

In addition to the four voted awards, a number of special honours will also be presented in Bordeaux, including the Women's SVNS Top Try Scorer and Men's SVNS Top Try Scorer awards in partnership with Gilbert.

The Women's and Men's SVNS Dream Teams of the Year, will also be unveiled, recognising the players who have consistently delivered world-class performances throughout the season.

The HSBC SVNS Awards 2026 will provide the perfect finale to an action-packed season, celebrating the athletes who have lit up the series and helped make the HSBC SVNS Series another unforgettable showcase of rugby sevens.

World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin said: "The HSBC SVNS Awards recognise the exceptional talent, commitment and performances that have defined another outstanding year of rugby sevens around the world. From season-long standout performers to exciting new players making their mark on the international stage, these nominees represent the very best of our sport.

"Following a thrilling HSBC SVNS Series and World Championship, we look forward to celebrating the achievements of our nominees and announcing the winners in Bordeaux as we bring the 2026 season to a memorable close."