Ardie Savea wins World Rugby men's player of the year award

New Zealand's Ardie Savea has been named the men's World Rugby Player of the Year.

Savea has overcome challenges from Springboks lock Eben Etzebeth, France’s Antoine Dupont and Ireland's Bundee Aki to become the sixth player from New Zealand to win the award after Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Kieran Read, Brodie Retallick and Beauden Barrett.

The 30-year-old scored three tries in New Zealand's World Cup campaign which ended with a 11-12 finals defeat to South Africa. He also went on to captain the side in the final after regular skipper Sam Cane was red-carded at the end of the opening half.

“I’ve been going by this mantra all year - very blessed and very grateful to be up here,” Savea said.

“For an individual to stand out it’s based off the foundation of the team. Massive shout out to Foz, Skip and my brothers this year and the last couple of years and the journey we’ve been through.”

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell defeated New Zealand's Ian Foster and South Africa's Jacques Nienaber to win the Coach of the Year after guiding his side to an unbeaten 17 game streak that saw them reach the top of the World Rugby Rankings.

All Blacks wing Mark Telea was named the men's breakthrough player of the year while Scotland's Duhan van der Merwe won the try of the year for his effort during the Six Nations game against England.

Argentina's Rodrigo Isgro was named World Rugby men's sevens player of the year with New Zealand's Tyla Nathan-Wong winning the women's award. Ex-Springbok skipper John Smit won the International Rugby Players special merit award.