A dominant lock forward who has consistently performed at the highest level, earning numerous accolades and leading the All Blacks to multiple championships.
Sam Whitelock, born on October 12, 1988, is a former New Zealand rugby union player renowned for being the youngest Kiwi to reach 100 tests and the fastest player to achieve this feat, accomplishing it in just eight years and two months after his debut. With an illustrious career spanning over a decade, Whitelock has left an indelible mark on the world of rugby.
Whitelock's rugby journey began with the Baby All Blacks, where he was part of the world championship-winning team at the 2008 IRB Junior World Championship. He made his Air New Zealand Cup debut for Canterbury in 2008 and later debuted in Super Rugby for the Crusaders in the 2010 Super 14 season.
In 2010, Whitelock was selected into the All Blacks team for the mid-year rugby test series, marking the beginning of his remarkable international career. He made his debut against Ireland, scoring two tries, and went on to play ten tests in the same year.
Whitelock's impressive performances earned him the prestigious New Zealand Rugby Player of the Year award in 2017. He was also a key member of the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cup-winning teams, becoming one of only 43 players to have won the Rugby World Cup more than once.
Whitelock formed a formidable locking combination with Brodie Retallick, with the pair playing 50 tests together since 2012. Their partnership was instrumental in the All Blacks' success during that period.
After a remarkable career, Whitelock played his last game of rugby, captaining the Barbarians side against Fiji at Twickenham on June 22, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the greatest lock forwards in New Zealand rugby history.
Sam Whitelock's remarkable career serves as an inspiration to rugby enthusiasts and aspiring athletes alike, cementing his place as one of the greatest players in the sport's history.
45 Years Old
A dominant and iconic flanker who led the All Blacks to numerous championships, including two World Cup titles, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby players of all time.
44 Years Old
A legendary fly-half who led the All Blacks to numerous victories, including two World Cup titles, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in rugby history.
44 Years Old
A legendary All Blacks centre, renowned for his exceptional vision, distribution, and defensive skills, earning him numerous accolades, including two World Cup titles.
40 Years Old
A dual-code rugby star and professional boxer, renowned for his exceptional skills, versatility, and charismatic personality. He's a beloved sports icon in New Zealand and beyond.
40 Years Old
A dominant and dynamic flanker who led the All Blacks to numerous victories, including back-to-back World Cup titles.
38 Years Old
A dominant tighthead prop who played 108 tests for the All Blacks, known for his exceptional scrummaging and powerful play.
