By Redaction ARPS Media with USA Today (Author: Tom Schad)
Rayno Nel, a South African rugby player turned strongman, won the World’s Strongest Man title in 2025, marking the first time someone from Africa has claimed the title.
His victory in Sacramento, California, makes him the first non-European or North American winner in the event’s 48-year history and the first rookie to win since 1997.
Nel led the competition with strong performances, finishing no worse than second in the initial events, and ultimately secured victory by just half a point over three-time champion Tom Stoltman in the final event, the Atlas Stones.
Nel’s journey from rugby to strongman was influenced by his competitive nature and the nearby presence of a top training facility. He plans to celebrate his historic win with a beer with his family.
Read full article at: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2025/05/18/2025-worlds-strongest-man-results-rayno-nel-wins/83714940007/
