Tristan Leyds Reveals Emotional Family Moment Behind SVNS Player of the Year Triumph

Blitzbok star shares touching story of tears, family support and the journey behind his historic achievement

For Tristan Leyds, winning the HSBC SVNS Men’s Player of the Year award was a career-defining achievement, but the moment became even more special because of the people who shared it with him.

The South African rugby star recently opened up about the emotional experience of receiving the prestigious award and how his family’s reaction made the achievement unforgettable.

Speaking on the “Behind The Ruck” podcast with Juan de Jongh and Rudie Paige, Leyds reflected on the moment his name was announced and the emotions that followed inside the stadium.

The Strand-born Blitzbok explained that he already knew where his family was seated during the ceremony, including his older brother Dillyn Leyds, a former Springbok and Stormers player.

When Tristan was announced as the winner, his brother immediately turned around to confirm the news.

“I knew where they were sitting in the stadium, and my brother turned around … then he asked, ‘Did you get the award?’” Tristan recalled.

After Tristan confirmed that he had won, Dillyn was overcome with emotion and broke down in tears while celebrating his brother’s achievement.

The special moment continued as Tristan shared the news with his mother before calling his father over.

According to Leyds, his father’s reaction was one of the most emotional moments of the night.

“I said to him, ‘Listen, I managed to get the award,’ and he dropped on my shoulder,” Tristan said, explaining that it was one of the rare occasions he had seen his father cry.

For Leyds, the award represented more than personal success. It was a celebration of the years of dedication, sacrifice and support that helped him reach the highest level of sevens rugby.

Behind every sporting achievement is often a family that has witnessed the journey from the beginning — from early training sessions and setbacks to moments of success.

Leyds has frequently spoken about the important role his parents played in shaping both his career and his character.

His journey from growing up in Strand to being recognised as the world’s top men’s sevens rugby player has become an inspiring story for his community and young athletes hoping to follow a similar path.

The SVNS Player of the Year award highlights Leyds’ impact on the sport and his contribution to the Blitzboks’ success on the international stage.

However, for the rugby star, the memory of his family’s emotional reaction will likely remain just as meaningful as the trophy itself.

The moment showed the powerful connection between athletes and the people who support them long before the world knows their names.

For Tristan Leyds and his family, the award was not only a celebration of a rugby achievement but also a reminder of the journey, sacrifices and love behind the success.