South Africa hooker Malcolm Marx was named World Rugby men's 15s player of the year, the fourth Springbok to claim the individual award, with his success coming seven years after he was first nominated.
The hooker played a staring role for South Africa at the Aviva Stadium as they beat Ireland 24-13, Marx being named the player of the match.
A bigger accolade followed as Marx took the Player of the Year award ahead of Springbok teammates Pieter-Steph du Toit, a two-time winner, and Ox Nche, as well as French winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey.
Nche was hoping to become the first prop to win the prize and had a strong case.
The 31-year-old has been a focal point of the Springboks all conquering pack, scoring five tries in a season that saw his side retain the Rugby Championship.
Marx joins Du Toit (2019 & 2024), Bryan Habana (2007) and Schalk Burger (2004) as South African recipients of the award.
New Zealand lock Fabian Holland was named World Rugby 15s breakthrough player of the year, while John Mitchell was coach of the year after leading England to Women's Rugby World Cup success, though that award was announced in September.
Canada's Sophie de Goede took the World Rugby women’s 15s player of the year, and breakthrough player went to Braxton Sorensen-McGee of New Zealand.
