Little-known former rugby star Rayno Nel, 30, makes history as he wins World’s Strongest Man in FIRST YEAR competing

FORMER rugby player Rayno Nel won World’s Strongest Man on his debut in the competition.

Nel, 30, managed to get the job done despite a slow start on Sunday in Sacramento, .

The strongman made history as he became the first contestant from to win in his first year.

The South African in the final after winning his group in the Qualifying Stage.

Nel prevailed in the Knaack Carry & Hoist as he finished first in the division.

He also finished second in the 18th Max Deadlift and Hercules Hold.

Nel snatched third place in the Atlas Stone and finished fifth in the Flintstone Press Max.

His performance led to immense praise from fans worldwide on social media.

One supporter tweeted: “What a performance.”;;

Another commented: “Seriously impressive.”;;

A third wrote: “Well done Rayno.”;;

This fan said: “Awesome job.”;;

And that one stated: “Fantastic! Congratulations!”;;

Nel started his career at playing for theCentral University of TechnologyandFree State Cheetahs in South Africa before moving to strongman in 2023.