South African Rayno Nel makes history as 'World's Strongest Man'
This victory marks a historic first—not only for South Africa but for the entire African continent and the southern hemisphere.
Nel's triumph in Sacramento stunned the strongman world. In his debut at the World's Strongest Man final, he edged out defending champion Tom Stoltman by a razor-thin margin of just 0.5 points.
The final event, the legendary Atlas Stones, saw Nel load the fourth stone mere fractions of a second ahead of his rivals, according to Good Things Guy.
This clutch performance sealed his victory with a final score of 47 to Stoltman's 46.5. Canada's Mitchell Hooper finished third with 43.5 points.
Nel's journey to global dominance is nothing short of remarkable.
Born in Upington and raised in the rugby heartland of Bloemfontein, he played rugby for the Central University of Technology and the Free State Cheetahs.
After retiring from rugby in 2019 to work as an electrical engineer, Nel discovered strongman competitions in 2023.
He quickly made his mark, winning South Africa's Strongest Man twice and claiming Africa's Strongest Man titles in 2023 and 2024.
He also dominated the 2024 Strongman Champions League season, becoming the world series champion.
At the 2025 World's Strongest Man finals, Nel wasted no time making his presence felt. On Day 1, he won the opening KNAACK Carry & Hoist and placed second in both the 18-inch deadlift and the Hercules Hold.
These results gave him a commanding lead of roughly seven points going into Day 2. Although Stoltman fought back with wins in the later events, Nel's early cushion proved decisive.
Nel said, 'To represent South Africa in any way whatsoever feels surreal. We're a small country with many struggles, so this means so much to my people.'
He added with a smile, 'I couldn't enjoy my favourite Black Label lager here in California, so I'll have to try American beer tonight.'
The reaction back home was electric. South Africans from Cape Town to Johannesburg flooded social media with pride.
The official South African Government Twitter account congratulated Nel, tweeting: 'HISTORY MADE! Congratulations to Rayno Nel, Africa's first-ever World's Strongest Man champion!'
Nel's win is more than just a personal achievement. It's a beacon of hope and a symbol of possibility for South Africa's 'rainbow nation.'
He is proof that with determination and hard work, even the strongest titles in sport are within reach. Nel remains humble and hungry. 'My strength came up fast, and I'm still improving,' he said.
South Africa can now celebrate not just a champion, but a legend in the making. The world has taken notice—and so has the whole of Mzansi.
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