Sergio Parisse didn't blink when asked who his toughest opponent was…
02/18/2025 02:30 PM
Italy's legendary captain Sergio Parisse may have hung up his boots, but his influence on rugby remains strong.
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After retiring at the end of last season, the former Toulon number eight has transitioned seamlessly into a coaching role with the French club while also sharing his insights as a pundit during the 2025 Six Nations.
Parisse, widely regarded as one of the greatest number eights of all time, recently opened up about the toughest players he faced during his illustrious career.
“Everyone knows their body and what they are capable of,” Parisse said. “I knew I had the mental and physical strength to finish on my terms – now I'm enjoying the next chapter.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Sergio Parisse was born in La Plata, Argentina, to Italian parents, before becoming one of rugby's most respected captains.
Sergio Parisse’s Toughest Opponents
#5. David Pocock (Australia)
With 83 caps across an 11-year career, Pocock was a relentless force on the field and became just as well-known for his work in social justice and environmental activism after retiring.
Parisse said: “Nobody tested me physically as much as Pocock. He was the perfect rugby player.”
DID YOU KNOW? Born in Zimbabwe, Pocock moved to Australia as a teenager and became one of the Wallabies’most feared players.
#4. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Known for his ferocious tackling, Dusautoir still holds the record for most tackles in a World Cup match – 38 against New Zealand in 2007.
Parisse said: “Dusautoir has to be considered one of the greats. No matter the occasion, he always brought the same intensity.”
DID YOU KNOW? Dusautoir was crowned World Rugby Player of the Year in 2011, only the second Frenchman to ever win the award.
#3. Kieran Read (New Zealand)
Read scored 26 tries during his international career and is the third-most-capped All Black, with 127 tests across an 11-year span.
Parisse said: “I think Kieran Read was underrated compared to some of his teammates. Relentless.”
DID YOU KNOW? In the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours, Read was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to rugby.
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