#2. Dan Carter
Full Name: Daniel William Carter
Date of Birth: March 5, 1982
Nationality: New Zealand
Position: Fly-half
Overview:
Dan Carter is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby union players in history. Known for his precision, consistency, and tactical brilliance, Carter played a pivotal role for the New Zealand All Blacks, becoming one of the team’s most iconic players. His skillset as a fly-half included exceptional kicking, sharp decision-making, and a calm demeanor under pressure.
Career Highlights:
Carter made his international debut for the All Blacks in 2003 and enjoyed a stellar career that spanned over a decade. He amassed 1,598 points in 112 international matches, making him the highest point scorer in rugby history. Carter was a crucial part of New Zealand’s 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cup-winning teams. Despite missing the 2011 final due to injury, he returned to lead his side in 2015, being named the Player of the Match in the final against Australia.
Post-Rugby:
After retiring from international rugby in 2015, Carter continued to play at club level in France and Japan before retiring from all forms of rugby in 2021. Off the field, he has been involved in numerous charitable and business ventures, further cementing his legacy as a respected figure in world sport.
McGeechan wrote that Carter “really was the complete 10. His defence was immaculate, he could break himself, he could bring others in to play, his kicking from hand and from tee was incredibly accurate. He also changed the way the game was played with his kicking from his own 22m and his kicking to compete. The greatest of the modern era in my opinion.’’