South Africa currently holds the top spot in the world rugby ranking for men, with 92.78 points as of August 2025. Closely behind is New Zealand with 92.06 points, making the race for the top position a tight contest. Ireland, France, and England complete the top five, showcasing how European teams continue to assert a strong influence on the global rugby stage.
South Africa’s stronghold in rugby resonates beyond just points and rankings—it embodies a sense of national pride. Rugby is one of the country’s most celebrated sports, often tied to its history of unity and identity.