Few sportsmen have enjoyed as varied and successful a career as the New Zealander, who turns 30 today. ‘SBW’ has represented his nation in rugby union and rugby league, as well as boasting an undefeated seven-bout record as a heavyweight boxer.
Williams began his professional career with NRL outfit Canterbury- Bankstown Bulldogs, then making the switch to union with French club Toulon in 2008. His superb offloading skills and physicality saw him quickly become an All Black, winning the Rugby World Cup in 2011.
A switch to Japan’s Panasonic preceded a one-season return to league with Sydney Roosters in 2013/14, before again making it back to the 15-a-side game with Chiefs. Williams also converted to Islam seven years ago, subsequently becoming the first Muslim to play for the All Blacks.
1952: Osvaldo Ardiles, former Tottenham midfielder and World Cup winner with Argentina in 1978 (63).
1963: Frano Botica, former New Zealand stand-off and Wigan rugby league winger (52).
1975: Wael Gomaa (below), legendary Al Ahly defender who won 113 caps for Egypt (40).
1984: Ryan Lochte, multiple Olympic and World Championship gold medal winner from United States (31).
