French rugby superstar Antoine Dupont had already cemented his place as one of the best players in the world, but 2024 saw him conquer the globe with an unprecedented run of success.
Following the disappointment of a home World Cup quarter-final exit, the French wizard decided to join the French Sevens team in their quest for Olympic gold, again on home soil. He quickly established himself as a star in the seven-a-side game, but more importantly, he returned to the 15-a-side game a better player, playing a key role in Toulouse's double title triumph.
Here is a breakdown of the key moments in Dupont's spectacular 2024:
Vancouver Sevens
Dupont's Sevens journey began in Vancouver. He made his debut as a substitute in France's 24-12 win over the USA, but his impact increased in the clash against Australia. Starting the game, Dupont scored his first try in the Sevens format during a 31-5 victory. France later reached the third-place playoff, where they once again defeated the USA 42-12, with Dupont also crossing the try line in this emphatic win.
Champions Cup Glory
After a brief foray into Sevens, Dupont returned his focus to Toulouse's Champions Cup campaign. The French magician was instrumental in Toulouse's convincing victories over Exeter Chiefs and Harlequins on their road to the final. He delivered one of the greatest performances of his career in the extra-time win over Leinster at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, playing a pivotal role in Toulouse lifting a historic sixth Champions Cup title.
Madrid Sevens
Following his European club success, Dupont returned to the Sevens circuit in Madrid. He starred once again in their run to the final in the Spanish capital, providing a crucial assist in the 19-5 victory over Argentina, securing France's first Sevens title in 19 years.
With the Olympic Games fast approaching, Dupont had another club title to contend with before his Sevens commitments.
Top 14 Title
Back in the red and black of Toulouse, Dupont was seeking his third title of the season. After finishing top of the Top 14 table, Toulouse entered the playoffs as heavy favourites, but the title was far from guaranteed. Dupont's team overcame a tough challenge against La Rochelle in the semi-final before showcasing their class in the final against Bordeaux. The French scrum-half shone in Marseille, scoring two tries and delivering an exceptional performance in their 59-3 win.
Olympic Sevens Gold
Dupont's Sevens journey had been building towards this moment, but their campaign looked in doubt after a shaky start. France drew 12-12 with the USA in their opening match and only just edged past Uruguay at the end of the first day. A tough loss to Fiji at the start of day two seemed to derail their campaign, but they rallied with a 26-14 win over Argentina to reach the semi-finals.
France then knocked out South Africa in the semi-final, setting up a final showdown with Fiji. This is where Dupont truly shone. The Olympic poster boy scored two tries and provided one assist in a dominant 28-7 victory over Fiji, sending the Stade de France into raptures.
This was Dupont's crowning achievement, rounding off an incredible year for the French rugby sensation.