Sonny Bill Williams didn't hesitate naming the best rugby player of all-time

The 40-year-old made his All Blacks debut against England in 2010 and went on to earn 58 caps for New Zealand. He played in three Rugby World Cups and was part of the All Blacks’ victorious campaigns in 2011 and 2015.

Having faced some of the finest talents in world rugby, Williams has now revealed the five players he considered the toughest opponents on the field.

Bio: Quade Cooper, born in 1988 in New Zealand but representing Australia, is a fly-half known for his flair, unpredictability, and creative attacking play. Cooper made his Wallabies debut in 2008 and has played in multiple Rugby World Cups, earning recognition for his exceptional skill and playmaking ability.

Williams on Cooper:
"You just have to watch some of his highlights on the football field to realise what a talent he is. He’s another guy who can create something out of nothing, and I don’t think he gets the credit he deserves."

Bio: Born in 1989 in Sydney, Kurtley Beale is a versatile back who has represented Australia in multiple positions, including fly-half and fullback. Known for his electric pace and inventive style, Beale has been a standout performer for the Wallabies over more than a decade, featuring in three Rugby World Cups.

Williams on Beale:
"He’s a player I’ve loved watching over the years, and I don’t think he gets the acknowledgement he deserves. He was one of the best players – if not the best – for Australia in the World Cup. His skillset is incredible, and you can tell he’s got his stuff together off the field as well."

Bio: Thierry Dusautoir, born in 1981 in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is widely regarded as one of the greatest flankers in rugby history. Dusautoir was known for his relentless tackling, leadership, and work ethic. He captained France in multiple tournaments and was named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2011.

Williams on Dusautoir:
"From my time in France, I’d have to say Thierry Dusautoir. He wasn’t just an amazing player, but you can see how he rallies his troops and performs in big games. He’s someone I really admire."

Bio: Jonah Lomu (1975–2015) was a legendary New Zealand winger famed for his combination of size, speed, and power. Bursting onto the international stage during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, Lomu revolutionized the wing position and became one of the most iconic figures in the sport.

Williams on Lomu:
"He’s someone who stood out because even when I didn’t play rugby, I knew who he was. You just have to watch his highlights to see how incredible he was. You don’t see players these days running through ten defenders on the way to the tryline."

Bio: Jonny Wilkinson, born in 1979 in Frimley, England, is one of rugby’s greatest fly-halves. Best known for his 2003 World Cup-winning drop goal, Wilkinson scored 1,246 points in 97 international appearances for England and the British & Irish Lions. Renowned for his precision kicking and dedication, he remains a benchmark for professionalism in rugby.

Williams on Wilkinson:
"I’m lucky enough to say I’ve played with Jonny Wilkinson and have seen the commitment that he had. When I played with him, he was pretty much at the height of his powers, but the way he dedicated himself to his craft was unbelievable and I learned a lot from him."

Fun fact: Jonny’s brother, Mark Wilkinson, also played professionally for Newcastle, making 16 Premiership appearances predominantly as a centre between 2002 and 2005.