French · Abidjan, Ivory Coast · Born 18 November 1981Thierry Dusautoir was a relentless French flanker who captained Les Bleus to the 2011 World Cup final and was named IRB World Player of the Year that year.
Thierry Dusautoir was born on 18 November 1981 in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, and moved to France to pursue his rugby career, beginning with Bordeaux before spells at US Colomiers and Biarritz. He joined Toulouse in 2006, spending 11 seasons with the club and developing into one of the most respected and hard-working openside flankers in the history of French rugby. Dusautoir made his France debut in 2006 and delivered one of the most celebrated individual performances in Rugby World Cup history at the 2011 tournament, making a tournament-record 38 tackles in the final against New Zealand as France narrowly lost 8-7 — a display that earned him the IRB World Player of the Year award that same year. Dusautoir captained France a national-record 56 times, leading the side to the 2011 World Cup final and guiding the team through the 2015 tournament, where his international career ended with a quarter-final defeat to New Zealand. He scored six tries in 80 caps across a nine-year Test career defined more by relentless defensive work than individual glory. Dusautoir retired from international rugby in 2015 after discussions with incoming head coach Guy Novès, his former club coach at Toulouse, and remains widely regarded as one of the finest defensive forwards ever to play for France.
France captain, IRB World Player of the Year 2011
How They Played
Dusautoir was renowned for his exceptional work rate, outstanding lineout skills, and tireless tackling ability. He possessed excellent hands for a forward and was highly effective at the breakdown, combining technical precision with remarkable stamina. His leadership qualities and tactical awareness made him invaluable in both attack and defense.
Lasting Impact
Dusautoir is remembered as one of the finest flankers of the modern era and one of France's greatest rugby captains. His professionalism and consistency helped elevate the standard of back-row play in international rugby.
Career Honours
- IRB World Player of the Year 2011
- Six Nations Grand Slam 2010
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Stade Toulousain | 2002–2017 | 292 |
 France | — | 80 |
French Athletes