View source for Sonny Bill Williams

{{Short description|New Zealand rugby player}}
{{distinguish|Sonny Boy Williamson I|Sonny Boy Williamson II}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2015}}
{{Infobox rugby league biography
| name                = Sonny Bill Williams
| image               = Sonny Bill Williams NRL.jpg
| image_size          = 
| alt                 = 
| caption             = 
| fullname            = Sonny William Williams
| birth_date          = {{birth date and age|1985|08|03|df=y}}
| birth_place         = [[Auckland, New Zealand|Auckland]], New Zealand
| height              = {{convert|191|cm|ftin|0|abbr=on}}<ref name="stats.allblacks.com">{{cite web|url=http://stats.allblacks.com/asp/Profile.asp?ABID=1108 |title=Stats &#124; allblacks.com |publisher=Stats.allblacks.com |date= |accessdate=2022-08-19}}</ref>
| weight              = {{convert|108|kg|stlb lb|0|abbr=on}}<ref name="stats.allblacks.com"/>
| position            = {{rlp|SR|CE|LK}}
| club1               = [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs|Canterbury Bulldogs]]
| year1start          = 2004
| year1end            = 08
| appearances1        = 73
| tries1              = 31
| goals1              = 0
| fieldgoals1         = 0
| points1             = 124
| club2               = [[Sydney Roosters]]
| year2start          = 2013
| year2end            = 14
| appearances2        = 45
| tries2              = 11
| goals2              = 0
| fieldgoals2         = 0
| points2             = 44
| club3               = [[Toronto Wolfpack]]
| year3start          = 2020
| year3end            = 
| appearances3        = 5
| tries3              = 0
| goals3              = 0
| fieldgoals3         = 0
| points3             = 0
| club4               = [[Sydney Roosters]]
| year4start          = 2020
| year4end            = 
| appearances4        = 5
| tries4              = 0
| goals4              = 0
| fieldgoals4         = 0
| points4             = 0
| teamA               = [[New Zealand national rugby league team|New Zealand]]
| yearAstart          = 2004
| yearAend            = 13
| appearancesA        = 12
| triesA              = 5
| goalsA              = 0
| fieldgoalsA         = 0
| pointsA             = 20
| first               = RL
| ru_position         = [[Centre (rugby union)|Centre]], [[Wing (rugby union)|Wing]]
| ru_club1            = [[RC Toulonnais|Toulon]]
| ru_year1start       = 2008
| ru_year1end         = 10
| ru_appearances1     = 33
| ru_tries1           = 6
| ru_goals1           = 0
| ru_fieldgoals1      = 0
| ru_points1          = 30
| ru_club2            = [[Canterbury (National Provincial Championship)|Canterbury]]
| ru_year2start       = 2010
| ru_year2end         = 
| ru_appearances2     = 7
| ru_tries2           = 4
| ru_goals2           = 0
| ru_fieldgoals2      = 0
| ru_points2          = 20
| ru_club3            = [[Crusaders (rugby union)|Crusaders]]
| ru_year3start       = 2011
| ru_year3end         = 
| ru_appearances3     = 15
| ru_tries3           = 5
| ru_goals3           = 0
| ru_fieldgoals3      = 0
| ru_points3          = 25
| ru_club4            = [[Chiefs (rugby union)|Chiefs]]
| ru_year4start       = 2012, 2014-2016
| ru_year4end         = 
| ru_appearances4     = 28
| ru_tries4           = 6
| ru_goals4           = 0
| ru_fieldgoals4      = 0
| ru_points4          = 30
| ru_club5            = {{Nowrap|[[Panasonic Wild Knights]]}}
| ru_year5start       = 2012
| ru_year5end         = 
| ru_appearances5     = 7
| ru_tries5           = 2
| ru_goals5           = 0
| ru_fieldgoals5      = 0
| ru_points5          = 10
| ru_club6            = [[Counties Manukau (National Provincial Championship)|Counties Manukau]]
| ru_year6start       = 2014
| ru_year6end         = 19
| ru_appearances6     = 3
| ru_tries6           = 0
| ru_goals6           = 0
| ru_fieldgoals6      = 0
| ru_points6          = 0
| ru_club7            = [[Blues (Super Rugby)|Blues]]
| ru_year7start       = 2017
| ru_year7end         = 19
| ru_appearances7     = 18
| ru_tries7           = 1
| ru_goals7           = 0
| ru_fieldgoals7      = 0
| ru_points7          = 5
| ru_teamA            = [[New Zealand national rugby union team|New Zealand]]
| ru_yearAstart       = 2010
| ru_yearAend         = 19
| ru_appearancesA     = 58
| ru_triesA           = 13
| ru_fieldgoalsA      = 0
| ru_pointsA          = 80
| ru_teamC            = [[New Zealand national rugby sevens team|New Zealand Sevens]]
| ru_yearCstart       = 2016
| ru_yearCend         =
| ru_appearancesC     = 7
| ru_triesC           = 4
| ru_goalsC           = 0
| ru_fieldgoalsC      = 0
| ru_pointsC          = 20
| source              = <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/players/sonny-bill-williams/summary.html | title=Sonny Bill Williams - Career Stats & Summary - Rugby League Project }}</ref><!-- ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.rugbydatabase.co.nz/player/opponentList.php?opponentId=58&playerId=43 | title=Sonny Bill Williams - Rugby Career & Stats - Rugby Database }}</ref -->
| updated             = 16 July 2022
}}
'''Sonny William Williams''' (born 3 August 1985) is a New Zealand [[heavyweight boxer]], and a former professional [[rugby league]] and [[rugby union]] player. He is only the [[List of dual-code rugby internationals#New Zealand|second person]] to represent New Zealand in rugby union after first playing for the country in rugby league, and is one of only 43 [[List of winners of multiple Rugby World Cups|players to have won the Rugby World Cup twice]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sarugbymag.co.za/sonny-williams-focus-to-boxing/|title=Former All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams turns focus to boxing|date=10 March 2021}}</ref>

Williams began his career in rugby league, and has played as a {{rlp|sr}} forward over eight seasons in three spells in the [[National Rugby League]] (NRL), with the [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs]] and [[Sydney Roosters]]. He has won 12 caps for [[New Zealand national rugby league team|New Zealand]] (the Kiwis) and won the [[RLIF Awards]] for Rookie of the Year in 2004 and International Player of the Year in 2013. In 2020 he played for the [[Toronto Wolfpack]] in [[Super League]], before moving to Sydney Roosters the same year.

He first moved to rugby union in 2010 and played mainly as a [[Centre (rugby union)|centre]] for [[RC Toulonnais|Toulon]] in France, [[Canterbury Rugby Football Union|Canterbury]], [[Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union|Counties Manukau]], the [[Crusaders (rugby)|Crusaders]], [[Chiefs (rugby union)|Chiefs]] and [[Blues (Super Rugby)|Blues]] in New Zealand and [[Panasonic Wild Knights]] in Japan. He won 58 caps for [[New Zealand national rugby union team|New Zealand]] (the All Blacks), and was part of the teams that won the [[2011 Rugby World Cup|2011]] and [[2015 Rugby World Cup|2015]] World Cups. He also played rugby sevens for New Zealand, competing in the [[2015–16 World Rugby Sevens Series]] and the [[Rugby sevens at the 2016 Summer Olympics – Men's tournament|2016 Olympics]]. He retired from both rugby codes in March 2021.

Williams has boxed professionally ten times. He was the [[New Zealand Professional Boxing Association]] ([[NZPBA]]) Heavyweight Champion and [[World Boxing Association]] (WBA) International Heavyweight Champion, but was stripped of these titles after failing to respond to challenges.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-rugby-zealand-sonny-bill/sonny-bill-williams-stripped-of-boxing-belts-idUSBRE9BE02620131215|title=Sonny Bill Williams stripped of boxing belts|last1=Ganguly|first1=Sudipto|website=Reuters|date=15 December 2013|access-date=21 March 2019}}</ref>

==Early life==
Williams was born on 3 August 1985, in [[Auckland]], New Zealand, the son of a [[Samoans|Samoan]] father, Ioane ("John") Williams and mother, Lee Woolsey who is a [[Pākehā]] [[New Zealanders|New Zealander]] of [[English people|English]] descent whose mother (Williams' maternal grandmother) was from [[Australia]].<ref name="Sonny Bill is still a mum's boy at heart">{{cite web |title=Sonny Bill is still a mum's boy at heart|url=https://www.https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/league/415643/Sonny-Bill-is-still-a-mums-boy-at-heart/|date=31 January 2009}}</ref><ref name="Samoa to sound out SBW for Taumalolo-esque switch">{{cite web |last1=Walsh |first1=Dan |title=Samoa to sound out SBW for Taumalolo-esque switch|url=https://www.nrl.com/news/2019/11/07/samoa-to-sound-out-sbw-for-taumalolo-esque-switch/|date=7 November 2019}}</ref> He has an older brother, John Arthur, and younger twin sisters, [[Niall Williams (rugby union)|Niall]] and Denise.<ref name="nzherald.co.nz">[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/rugby/news/article.cfm?c_id=80&objectid=10871590 Early hints of Sonny Bill's charisma], by Steve Deane, nzherald.co.nz, dated 16 March 2013.</ref><ref name="Sonny Bill Williams, the contender">{{cite web |last1=Beanup |first1=Greg |title=Sonny Bill Williams, the contender |url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/features/the-contender/story-e6frg8h6-1226586019500|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180722041224/https://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/weekend-australian-magazine/the-contender/news-story/7421decbbfcd483898477885f6fd18a5 |archive-date=22 July 2018 |date=2 March 2013}}</ref>

Williams grew up in a working-class family in a [[State housing in New Zealand|state house]] in the Auckland suburb of [[Mount Albert, New Zealand|Mount Albert]].<ref name="Sonny Bill Williams, the contender"/> In describing his struggling family background, Williams later said that the "driving factor" in his pursuit of playing professional rugby league was to "get my mum a house."<ref name="theguardian.com">[https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/oct/28/sonny-bill-williams-new-zealand-world-cup Sonny Bill Williams: 'All those troubles made me the man I am today'], by Donald McRae, The Guardian, dated 29 October 2013.</ref> He attended Owairaka School,<ref name = Guardian-uk>{{cite news| first = Andy| last = Wilson| date= 6 November 2004| publisher= Guardian News and Media| work = Guardian| location = UK
| title= All eyes trained on Kiwis' boy wonder| url= https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2004/nov/06/rugbyleague.andywilson1| access-date =17 October 2010}}</ref> Wesley Intermediate and [[Mount Albert Grammar School]]. As a child he has been described as being a "small, skinny white kid"<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/personalities/news/article.cfm?c_id=72&objectid=11144966 There's something about: Sonny Bill Williams, league player], nzherald.co.nz, dated 26 October 2013.</ref> who was "painfully shy", as well as "a freakish sporting talent, a competitive [[Sprint (running)|sprinter]], a champion [[high jumper]] and [[cross country runner]] and the kid who played footy in teams a couple of age divisions above, to make things fairer."<ref name="Sonny Bill Williams, the contender"/> Despite being tipped to have a promising future in athletics, Williams abandoned it when he was about twelve years old.<ref name="nzherald.co.nz"/> Though his father was an accomplished rugby league player, Williams has said it was his mother who introduced him to the game.<ref name="stuff">{{cite news|date=11 May 2008|title=Sonny Bill is still a mum's boy at heart|publisher=Fairfax|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/4521609a10713.html|access-date=17 October 2010}}</ref>

==Rugby league==

Williams was a [[Marist Saints]] junior when he was spotted playing in Auckland by Bulldogs talent scout [[John Ackland (rugby league)|John Ackland]].<ref name = miracle>{{cite news| first = Chris| last = Rattue| date = 2 September 2006| url = http://www.nzherald.co.nz/warriors-league-team/news/article.cfm?c_id=360&objectid=10399308| title = Jerome Ropati – Miracle in the making| work = New Zealand Herald| publisher = APN Holdings| access-date =10 October 2010}}</ref> In 2002 he was offered a contract and moved to Sydney (as the youngest player to ever sign with an NRL club) to play in the Bulldogs' junior grades.<ref name = 19-year-old>{{cite news|url=http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/10/01/1096527943523.html|title = The King, Sonny and heir| date=2 October 2004| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| access-date =12 November 2011}}</ref><ref>[http://edition.cnn.com/2013/11/27/sport/sonny-bill-williams-rugby-new-zealand/index.html?sr=sharebar_twitter Sonny Bill Williams: Islam brings me happiness], by Gary Morley and Neil Curry, CNN, dated 27 November 2013.</ref><ref name = sbw-upgrades>{{cite news| url = http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/sonny-bill-upgrades-to-penthouse/story-e6frg7oo-1111117062737|title=Sonny Bill Williams upgrades to penthouse| last = Honeysett|first = Stuart|date = 31 July 2008| work = Australian| publisher = News| access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> While training professionally, Williams worked full-time as a [[labourer]].<ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-league/24993334 Rugby League World Cup 2013: Sonny Bill Williams eyes greatness], by Ben Dirs, BBC Sport, dated 22 November 2013.</ref> He advanced up the ranks quickly: becoming a starting player in the forward pack for the Bulldogs' [[Jersey Flegg Cup]] side in his first year. The following year Williams cemented a starting spot in the [[New South Wales Cup|Premier League]] side.<ref name="Statistics at rugbyleagueproject.org">{{cite web|url=http://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/players/sonny-bill-williams/summary.html|title=Statistics at rugbyleagueproject.org|publisher=rugbyleagueproject.org|date=31 December 2017|access-date=1 January 2018}}</ref> He also represented NSW as a junior; however, in 2013, when the [[New South Wales rugby league team|NSW team]] investigated whether he could represent them in [[State of Origin series|State of Origin]], it was found that he only met two of the five necessary [[State of Origin series#Selection rules|qualifications]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=Daniel Lane|title=Cooper Cronk's former running mate can't help Blues get his number|url=http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/rugby-league/st-george-illawarra-dragons/cooper-cronks-former-running-mate-cant-help-blues-get-his-number-20150530-ghd1cg.html|access-date=31 May 2015|work=Brisbane Times|date=30 May 2015}}</ref>

===2004–08: Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs===
In [[National Rugby League season 2004|2004]], when eighteen years old, Williams made his NRL debut for Canterbury-Bankstown against the [[Parramatta Eels]] at [[Telstra Stadium]]. In 2004, he was selected by New Zealand after only a handful of NRL games and on 23 April made his debut for [[New Zealand national rugby league team|the Kiwis]] as their youngest-ever Test player in the 2004 [[ANZAC Test]] against Australia.<ref name = 19-year-old/> He had previously played for the [[Junior Kiwis]].<ref name="nzherald.co.nz"/> Williams played fifteen NRL matches during the season, establishing himself in the Canterbury squad. He experienced premiership success in his debut season and became the youngest person to play for [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs]] in a [[grand final]] when playing off the bench in the Bulldogs' 16–13 victory over the [[Sydney Roosters]] in the [[2004 NRL Grand Final]].<ref name = 19-year-old/> Williams capped a successful debut season by receiving the [[2004 RLIF Awards]]' ''International Newcomer of the Year Award'' and being named in ''[[Rugby League World]]'' magazine's 2004 World XIII.<ref name="BBC_feet">{{cite news| url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_league/4268649.stm|title=Williams has world at his feet| last = Gordos| date=16 February 2005| work = BBC Sport|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> As 2004 NRL premiers, Canterbury-Bankstown faced [[Super League IX]] champions, the [[Leeds Rhinos]], in the [[2005 World Club Challenge]], which Canterbury lost 32–39.

Williams's contract was due to expire in 2005, and he received several offers to lure him away from the Bulldogs. The largest offer was rumoured to be about $3&nbsp;million from UK [[Super League]] club [[St Helens R.F.C.|St Helens]].<ref>{{cite news| first = Brad| last = Walter| date=10 March 2005| url = http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2005/03/09/1110316096193.html| title = What Sonny Bill is worth| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| access-date =27 January 2011}}</ref> Williams decided to stay with Canterbury-Bankstown and signed on for a further two years. St Helens chairman Eamonn McManus later said the club had not made an offer to him.<ref>{{cite web| last = Walshaw|first = Nick| url = http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/sonnys-slant-on-the-truth/story-e6frep9x-1111117156018| title = Sonny Bill Williams' slant on the truth| work = Courier Mail| publisher = News| date=11 August 2008| access-date =3 September 2011}}</ref>

Williams had a shortened [[National Rugby League season 2005|2005 season]] after sustaining a severe knee injury and several minor injuries. He played five games throughout the year and subsequently missed several internationals for New Zealand. Williams expressed his frustration, stating "You've got to be pretty strong mentally when you have injuries, and I've had a few."<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.smh.com.au/news/league/sonny-bill-slips-back-under-the-radar/2006/11/12/1162661955406.html?page=2| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| title=Sonny Bill slips back under the radar| date=12 November 2006}}</ref> Williams later adamantly dismissed claims he was injury prone.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.smh.com.au/news/news/bill-brushes-off-brittleness-bunkum/2007/09/17/1189881433927.html| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| title = Bill brushes off brittleness bunkum| first = Andrew| last = Webster| date = 18 September 2007| access-date =29 February 2012}}</ref>

Williams stayed relatively injury-free throughout the [[National Rugby League season 2006|2006 season]], playing in 21 matches and scoring eight tries. The Canterbury-Bankstown club were beaten in the preliminary final by eventual premiers the [[Brisbane Broncos]]. However, off-season surgery forced Williams to miss the [[2006 Rugby League Tri-Nations|Tri-Nations]] for New Zealand for the second consecutive year.<ref>{{cite news|title=New Zealand names five newcomers for Tri-Nations|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2006-10-04/new-zealand-names-five-newcomers-for-tri-nations/1278894|access-date=19 July 2015|work=AFP|date=5 October 2006}}</ref>

In the first game of the [[2007 NRL season|2007 season]], Williams was sent off and subsequently suspended for two weeks for a high tackle on [[Andrew Johns]]. He thus became the first player of the 21st century to be sent off in a first-round game.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.nrl.com/sharks-v-dragons-preview/tabid/10874/newsid/61792/default.aspx| title=Sharks v Dragons preview| publisher = NRL| date=17 March 2011}}</ref> Speculation surrounding Williams's playing future ended when he re-signed with Canterbury on 9 March 2007 for a five-year contract worth over $2.5&nbsp;million, extending through to the 2012 season.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.smh.com.au/news/league/dogs-tie-up-sonny-bill-for-five-years/2007/03/08/1173166891498.html?s_cid=rss_smh| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| title = I want to be a Bulldog for life| date = 9 March 2007}}</ref> Williams was selected to play for the Kiwis as a second-row forward in the 2007 Anzac Test loss against Australia.<ref>{{cite web|title=Anzac Test match 2007|url=http://www.rugbyleagueproject.org/matches/anzac-test-match-2007/australia-vs-new-zealand.html|work=rugbyleagueproject.org|publisher=Shawn Dollin, Andrew Ferguson and Bill Bates|access-date=1 September 2013}}</ref> He went on to play in 21 matches for the Bulldogs; scored fourteen tries and topped the competition, for the second successive year, for most offloads.<ref>[http://www.nrl.com/roosters-v-rabbitohs-preview/tabid/10874/newsid/70969/default.aspx Roosters v Rabbitohs preview], by Ben Blaschke, NRL.com, dated 5 March 2013.</ref> However, Williams broke his forearm in a tackle on [[Nathan Hindmarsh]] during the semi-final against the [[Parramatta Eels]]. His team lost the match, and Williams was again ruled out from representing New Zealand in the post-season [[2007 All Golds tour|2007 Great Britain Tour]]. He was nominated for 'Second-Rower of the Year' at the [[2007 Dally M Awards]]; however, [[Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles]] second-rower [[Anthony Watmough]] won the award.

===2013–14: Sydney Roosters===
[[File:Sonny Bill Williams, Roosters V Warriors 2014.JPG|thumb|Williams playing for the Roosters.]]
On 13 November 2012, Williams confirmed he would be returning to rugby league after signing a one-year deal with the [[Sydney Roosters]] for the [[2013 NRL season]].<ref>[http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/15365892/sonny-bill-stops-short-on-bulldogs-apology/ Sonny Bill stops short on Bulldogs apology] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121120163610/http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/15365892/sonny-bill-stops-short-on-bulldogs-apology/ |date=20 November 2012 }}, by Ian McCullough, AAP, dated 13 November 2012.</ref> His return was undertaken to honour a handshake agreement with Roosters chairman [[Nick Politis]].<ref name="smh.com.au">[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/rooster-or-chief-sonny-bill-williams-will-keep-em-guessing-20130930-2uo9d.html Rooster or Chief? Sonny Bill Williams will keep 'em guessing], by Brad Walter, smh.com.au, dated 30 September 2013.</ref> It took over a month before his contract was officially approved and registered by the [[Australian Rugby League Commission]]; he was "frogmarched into [[League Central]] to be grilled as part of the probe" into his contract.<ref>[http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/sydney-roosters-favourites-to-hold-onto-sonny-bill-williams-when-he-decides-on-his-future/story-fniabok8-1226695927863 Sydney Roosters favourites to hold onto Sonny Bill Williams when he decides on his future], by Josh Massoud, The Daily Telegraph, dated 13 August 2013.</ref><ref>[http://www.foxsports.com.au/league/nrl-premiership/sonny-bill-williams-signed-sealed-delivered-as-arlc-finally-approves-contract-with-the-roosters/story-fn2mcuj6-1226542087853#.UNWL9ttXuPo Sonny Bill Williams signed, sealed, delivered as ARLC finally approves contract with the Roosters], AAP, dated 21 December 2012.</ref> Williams's return coincided with the banning of the shoulder charge, a manoeuvre of which he has been described as the best and most famous exponent.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/shoulder-charge-ban-urged-20120407-1wi5u.html Shoulder charge ban urged], by Adrian Proszenko, smh.com.au, dated 8 April 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/league/7981497/NRL-rule-change-gets-cold-shoulder-from-players NRL rule change gets cold shoulder from players], by Sam Worthington, stuff.co.nz, dated 22 November 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.irrigator.com.au/story/1135034/players-up-in-arms-as-arlc-outlaws-the-shoulder-charge/?cs=2382 Players up in arms as ARLC outlaws the shoulder charge], by Brad Walter, The Irrigator, dated 21 November 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.foxsports.com.au/league/nrl-referees-boss-daniel-anderson-says-referees-got-shoulder-charge-interpretaion-right-in-all-stars/story-e6frf3ou-1226575865474#.UaPpmttXuPp NRL referees boss Daniel Anderson says referees got shoulder charge interpretation right in All Stars], by Chris Garry and Josh Massoud, The Courier-Mail, dated 12 February 2013.</ref>

On 7 March, Williams made his debut for the Roosters before a record [[2013 NRL season results#Round 1|first round]] crowd and television audience;<ref>[http://www.roosters.com.au/news-display/Round-1-Breaks-NRL-TV-and-Crowd-Records/69562 Round 1 Breaks NRL TV and Crowd Records] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130318051112/http://www.roosters.com.au/news-display/Round-1-Breaks-NRL-TV-and-Crowd-Records/69562 |date=18 March 2013 }}, roosters.com.au, dated 8 March 2013.</ref> he also scored his first try for his new club.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/a-disappointing-debut-in-defeat-but-sbw-knows-its-onwards-and-upwards-from-here-20130307-2fotw.html A disappointing debut in defeat, but SBW knows it's onwards and upwards from here], by Brad Walter, smh.com.a, dated 8 March 2013.</ref> On 1 April, Williams scored his second try in the Roosters' [[2013 NRL season results#Round 4|50–0]] win over the Eels—their biggest ever victory against Parramatta and the first time they had kept their opposition scoreless in consecutive matches since 1999.<ref>[http://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/sydney-roosters-hammer-pathetic-parramatta-eels-50-0/story-fndv38w0-1226610471867 Sydney Roosters hammer pathetic Parramatta Eels 50–0], by Dean Ritchie, The Daily Telegraph, dated 2 April 2013.</ref> On 12 April he scored twice in his first encounter against the [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs]], with the [[2013 NRL season results#Round 6|38–0]] result being the Roosters' largest ever victory over Canterbury.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-match-report/bad-to-worse-as-sbws-roosters-make-it-a-dog-day-20130412-2hrgc.html#ixzz2QFdGcU8h Bad to worse as SBW's Roosters make it a dog day], by Glenn Jackson, smh.com.au, dated 12 April 2013.</ref> On 5 May he scored his fifth try against the [[Penrith Panthers|Panthers]].<ref>[http://m.news.com.au/RugbyLeague/pg/0/fi1917847.htm Jennings fires against former club], The Daily Telegraph, dated 5 May 2013.</ref> On 16 June, Williams scored his sixth try against the [[New Zealand Warriors|Warriors]].<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-match-report/shock-loss-fails-to-take-gloss-off-sonny-bills-freak-talent-20130616-2oco8.html Shock loss fails to take gloss off Sonny Bill's freak talent], by Brad Walter, smh.com.au, dated 16 June 2013.</ref> On 28 July, Williams scored his seventh try against [[Newcastle Knights|Newcastle]], but he was given a two match suspension for a grade three careless high tackle on former [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs]] teammate [[Willie Mason]].<ref>[http://www.sportal.com.au/afl/news/robinson-sonny-bill-will-be-fine-245736 Robinson: Sonny Bill will be fine] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005025443/http://www.sportal.com.au/afl/news/robinson-sonny-bill-will-be-fine-245736 |date=5 October 2013 }}, by Mark Hughes, Sportal, dated 29 July 2013.</ref><ref>[http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/sonny-bill-williams-faces-two-week-ban-for-high-hit-on-willie-mason-in-roosters-win-over-knights/story-fniabok8-1226687082293 Sydney Rooster Sonny Bill Williams cops two-game suspension for hit on Willie Mason], by Barry Toohey, The Daily Telegraph, dated 30 July 2013.</ref> On 19 August, after returning from suspension, Williams scored his eighth try against the [[Wests Tigers]].<ref>[http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/sonny-bill-williams-puts-on-another-stellar-peformance-as-sydney-roosters-destroy-wests-tigers/story-fniabok8-1226700197723 Sonny Bill Williams puts on another stellar performance as Sydney Roosters destroy Wests Tigers], by Nick Walshaw, The Daily Telegraph, 20 August 2013.</ref> On 6 September he was named man-of-the-match as the Roosters claimed the NRL minor premiership and [[J. J. Giltinan Shield]] against the Rabbitohs in front of a record NRL regular season crowd of 59,708.<ref>[http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/18815398/pearce-maloney-deliver-for-roosters/mostReplied/# Pearce, Maloney deliver for Roosters], by Adrian Warren, NZ Newswire, dated 7 September 2013.</ref><ref>[http://www.noosanews.com.au/news/sbw-has-chooks-crowing/2013907/ SBW has Chooks crowing], by Tony Durkin, dated 9 September 2013.</ref> On 6 October, Williams played in the grand final [[2013 NRL Grand Final|against]] Manly, with the Roosters claiming the premiership 26–18. Williams later said of the victory "I didn't cry, but it was the first time I've come close to crying."<ref>[http://www.canberratimes.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/sbw-backs-halftime-apology-with-actions-20131006-2v2oi.html SBW backs half-time apology with actions], by Glenn Jackson, canberratimes.com.au, dated 7 October 2013.</ref> Subsequently, he was awarded the [[Jack Gibson (rugby league)|Jack Gibson]] Medal as the Roosters' player of the year.<ref>[http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/sydney-roosters-chairman-nick-politis-fires-up-at-test-selector-bob-mccarthy-during-clubs-awards-night/story-fniabok8-1226735717370 Sydney Roosters chairman Nick Politis fires up at Test selector Bob McCarthy during club's awards night], by James Hooper, The Daily Telegraph, dated 9 October 2013.</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/league/9264487/Sonny-Bill-wins-Roosters-player-of-year-award Sonny Bill wins Roosters' player of year award], by James MacSmith, stuff.co.nz, dated 10 October 2013.</ref> Several days later he announced that he would continue playing for the Roosters into [[2014 NRL season|2014]]<ref>[http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/nrl/sonny-bill-williams-is-likely-to-stick-with-the-nrl-after-rejecting-a-deal-to-return-to-rugby-union/story-fniabjcr-1226738316363 Sonny Bill Williams to play for the Roosters in 2014 and has rejected a return to rugby union], The Daily Telegraph, dated 11 October 2013.</ref>—the first time he had played consecutive seasons for one team since leaving Toulon in 2010.<ref>[http://www.sportlive.co.za/rugby/morerugby/2013/10/11/sonny-bill-snubs-all-blacks-to-stay-in-league Sonny Bill snubs All Blacks to stay in League], Sapa-AFP, dated 11 October 2013.</ref>

[[File:Sonny Bill Williams 2013 (1).JPG|thumb|250px|right|Williams during the 2013 RLWC.]]
Following the NRL season, Williams announced himself unavailable for international selection. As a result, New Zealand named a 24-man squad without him; however, after reversing his self-exclusion he was added to the squad at the expense of [[Tohu Harris]].<ref>[http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/melbourne-storms-tohu-harris-has-been-sacrifed-for-sonny-bill-williams-join-the-new-zealand-squad/story-e6frfkp9-1226735468659 Sonny Bill Williams apologises after Tohu Harris is sacrificed to allow Roosters star to join the New Zealand squad], by Dean Ritchie, The Telegraph, dated 10 October 2013.</ref> On 27 October, Williams played in his first Test game in over five years—and his first victory for the Kiwis—while playing [[2013 Rugby League World Cup Group B#New Zealand vs Samoa|against Samoa]].<ref>[http://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/sonny-bills-slippery-howler-leaves-him-embarrassed/story-e6frg7mf-1226748012203 Sonny Bill's slippery howler leaves him embarrassed], AAP, dated 28 October 2013.</ref><ref>[http://web.orange.co.uk/article/sports/williams_left_red_faced_over_slip Williams left red-faced over slip], orange.co.uk, dated 28 October 2013.</ref> In his second game of the tournament, Williams scored three tries [[2013 Rugby League World Cup Group B#New Zealand vs Papua New Guinea|against Papua New Guinea]], in a man-of-the-match performance.<ref>[http://www.3news.co.nz/VIDEO-All-tries-56-10-New-Zealand-Kiwis-V-PNG-Rugby-League-World-Cup-2013/tabid/415/articleID/320669/Default.aspx#.Un16G3Bmg6Z VIDEO: All tries (56–10) New Zealand Kiwis V PNG, Rugby League World Cup 2013], AFP, dated 9 November 2013.</ref> In the week leading up to [[2013 Rugby League World Cup final|the final]], Williams was awarded the [[Rugby League International Federation]]'s 'International Player of the Year' award for 2013; he cried when his teammates performed an impromptu haka for him at the award ceremony.<ref>{{cite web|title=Awards|url=http://www.rlif.com/awards|work=rlif.com|publisher= [[Rugby League International Federation]]|access-date=5 December 2013}}</ref><ref name="Brad Walter 2013">[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/sonny-bill-williams-in-tears-after-being-named-player-of-year-20131128-2ybc7.html Sonny Bill Williams in tears after being named player of year], by Brad Walter, The Sydney Morning Herald, dated 28 November 2013.</ref> He went on to play in the World Cup final, where New Zealand were defeated by Australia.

On 6 March 2014, Williams and the Roosters began the [[2014 NRL season]] with [[2014 NRL season results#Round 1|a loss]] to rivals the Rabbitohs; he was suspended for three games as a result of a shoulder charge on [[George Burgess (rugby league)|George Burgess]] in the final minute of the game.<ref>[http://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/sonny-bill-williams-takes-early-guilty-plea-cops-three-week-suspension-for-shoulder-charge/story-fndv38w0-1226850334771 Sonny Bill Williams takes early guilty plea, cops three-week suspension for shoulder charge], by Paul Crawley, The Telegraph, dated 10 March 2014.</ref> He returned in round five in a loss to the Bulldogs.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/sydney-roosters-coach-trent-robinson-praises-sonny-bill-williams-20140405-zqr12.html#poll Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson praises Sonny Bill Williams], by Brad Walter, Sydney Morning Herald, dated 5 April 2014.</ref> On 12 April, Williams played his 100th NRL game against Parramatta—the same club he marked his debut against with the Bulldogs.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-match-report/parramatta-eels-gain-revenge-over-sydney-roosters-20140412-36kak.html Parramatta Eels gain revenge over Sydney Roosters], by David Sygall, Sydney Morning Herald, dated 12 April 2014.</ref> On 23 May he scored twice against the Bulldogs to register his first points of the season.<ref>[http://www.nrl.com/sbw-leads-spite-night-roosters-win/tabid/10874/newsid/78727/default.aspx SBW leads spite night Roosters win], by Dan Walsh, NRL.com, dated 23 May 2014.</ref> On 8 June, Williams scored his third try against the [[Melbourne Storm]].<ref>[http://www.nrl.com/team-of-the-week-round-13/tabid/10874/newsid/79243/default.aspx Team of the Week Round 13], by Jack Brady, NRL.com, dated 10 June 2014.</ref> Following the game [[2014 NRL season results#Round XX (20)|against]] Newcastle, he revealed he had suffered a fractured thumb and would be sidelined for up to four weeks.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/sonny-bill-williams-to-miss-a-month-of-nrl-for-roosters-with-fractured-thumb-20140726-zx7ce.html Sonny Bill Williams to miss a month of NRL for Roosters with fractured thumb], by Michael Carayannis, Sydney Morning Herald, dated 26 July 2014.</ref> During his recovery he was a guest host on the Nine Network's [[The Footy Show (rugby league)|Footy Show]]<ref>[http://rleague.com/news/Hayne-is-the-NRLs-No.1-says-SBW_133318/ Hayne is the NRL's No.1 says SBW] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140826133733/http://rleague.com/news/Hayne-is-the-NRLs-No.1-says-SBW_133318/ |date=26 August 2014 }}, by James MacSmith, dated 7 August 2014.</ref> and was part of a high-profile delegation to launch the NRL's ''Pacific Strategy'' in Samoa.<ref>[http://www.talamua.com/sonny-bill-williams-proud-to-help-develop-local-talents/ Sonny Bill Williams proud to help develop local talents], by Tulifau Auva'a, Talamua, dated 17 August 2014.</ref><ref>[http://www.samoaobserver.ws/home/headlines/11248-sonny-bill-for-the-manu Sonny Bill for the Manu?], by Sophie Budvietas, Samoa Observer, dated 19 August 2014.</ref><ref>[http://www.samoaobserver.ws/other/community/11288-sonny-bill-williams-drives-nrls-pacific-strategy Sonny Bill Williams drives N.R.L.'s Pacific Strategy], by Sophie Budvietas, Samoa Observer, dated 20 August 2014.</ref> After missing three games, Williams returned [[2014 NRL season results#Round 24|against]] the Warriors.<ref>[http://www.nrl.com/patience-key-to-big-roosters-win/tabid/10874/newsid/81269/default.aspx Patience key to big Roosters win], by Corey Rosser, NRL.com, dated 24 August 2014.</ref> On 26 September, Williams's two-year tenure in the NRL ended following the minor premiers' [[2014 NRL season results#Week 3 - Preliminary Finals|preliminary final loss]] to the Rabbitohs. However, Williams did not rule out a return to the Roosters in the future.<ref>[http://www.nrl.com/sbw-leaves-with-head-held-high/tabid/10874/newsid/82174/default.aspx?cid=NRL_HP_Latest SBW leaves with head held high], by Dan Walsh, NRL.com, dated 27 September 2014.</ref>

===2019–20: Toronto Wolfpack===
In February 2019, Williams was linked with a move to [[Toronto Wolfpack]], the first Canadian professional club to play in the [[British rugby league system]].<ref>[https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/teams/exclusive-rugby-league-clubs-bold-play-to-bring-sonny-bill-williams-back-from-union/news-story/92a231127d12181ac86d1166d3f79bde Rugby league club's bold play to bring Sonny Bill Williams back from union], by George Clarke, foxsports.com.au, dated 21 February 2019.</ref> After their promotion to the [[Super League]], Williams agreed to switch back to rugby league and signed for the club on 7 November.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.torontowolfpack.com/toronto-wolfpack-sign-sonny-bill-williams/ | title=Toronto Wolfpack Sign Sonny Bill Williams | work=[[Toronto Wolfpack]] | date=7 November 2019 | access-date=7 November 2019}}</ref> The two-year deal was reportedly worth up to $10&nbsp;million.

===2020: Return to Bondi, Second Stint at the Sydney Roosters===
Following the Wolfpack announcing their withdrawal due to financial constraints which were enforced by the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, rumours had circled around the NRL that the league would loosen the contracting rules to allow for clubs to bring some of these team-less players in limbo to come back & play in the NRL if a club would sign them.

Subsequently, the injury-ravaged [[Sydney Roosters]], who at one stage were missing 11 of their top 17. The superstar forward was paid $150,000 to play the last four rounds of the competition and finals in their attempt to complete their premiership hat-trick.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/nrl/teams/roosters/nrl-2020-sonny-bill-williams-nervous-about-sydney-roosters-return/news-story/b210c2076cc90fbc8fe2fda2f8ae998b|title=Salary}}</ref> Williams' Toronto teammate, [[Ricky Leutele]] signed with rivals [[Melbourne Storm]] for the remainder of 2020. Williams returned against the [[Canberra Raiders]] in round 17 off the interchange bench playing 13 minutes, Williams made four runs for 23 metres, one offload and 5 tackles, in his team's 18–6 victory.

His final game would be the loss in the home semi-final against Canberra at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Williams announced his retirement via Instagram in early 2021, days after former Crusaders and dual World Cup-winning All Black teammate [[Dan Carter]].

==Rugby union==

===2008–10: Toulon===
In July 2008, after linking up with new manager [[Khoder Nasser]],<ref>[http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/nrl/the-man-behind-sonnys-rage/story-e6frfgd6-1111116428736 Khoder Nasser: The man behind Sonny Bill Williams' anger] ''heraldsun.com.au'', 24 May 2008</ref> Williams left Australia to join the [[Tana Umaga]] coached French rugby union club Toulon.<ref name = smh-interview>{{cite web| date= 17 January 2011| url = http://m.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-news/hold-the-phone-sonny-has-something-to-say-20110116-19sl1.html| title = Hold the phone, Sonny has something to say| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| access-date=27 January 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| first = Steve| last = Jancetic| url = http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,24145484-23214,00.html| title = Umaga the reason for Sonny's move| work = Fox Sports| date = 7 August 2008| access-date = 10 October 2010| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081122092330/http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,24145484-23214,00.html| archive-date = 22 November 2008| df = dmy-all}}</ref> In his controversial mid-season exit from the NRL, Williams cited [[salary cap]] concerns for his move.<ref name = smh-interview /> In 2005 it had been suggested that the [[National Rugby League salary cap|NRL's salary cap]] restrictions could prove problematic in trying to keep top-grade players in rugby league.<ref>{{cite news| first = Phil|last = Gould| date = 13 February 2005| url = http://www.smh.com.au/news/League/Milliondollar-kid-could-expose-farce-corroding-game/2005/02/12/1108061925984.html| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| title = Million-dollar kid could expose farce corroding game| access-date =27 January 2011}}</ref> The Canterbury Bulldogs club officials and players were not notified of his departure until after Williams had already left for Europe using a Samoan passport.<ref>{{cite news|author1=PAUL KENT|title=Sonny Bill Williams book: How SBW's rugby defection rocked and divided two codes|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/sonny-bill-williams-book-how-sbws-rugby-defection-rocked-and-divided-two-codes/story-fnp0lyn3-1227455689194|access-date=25 July 2015|work=THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH|date=25 July 2015}}</ref> Williams was eighteen months into a five-year contract with the Bulldogs, and the dispute was only resolved when Toulon paid a transfer fee of around £300,000 (A$750,000).<ref>{{cite news| first = Rob| last = Wildman| url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/club/2580942/Sonny-Bill-Williams-set-to-make-Toulon-debut-against-Saracens-Rugby-Union.html| work = Daily Telegraph| location=London| title = Sonny Bill Williams set to make Toulon debut against Saracens| date=18 August 2008| access-date=23 May 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scrum.com/scrum/rugby/story/101149.html|title=The sale of the century &#124; ESPN Scrum|publisher=Scrum.com|access-date=3 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author1=Danny Weidler|title=Sonny Bill Williams headed for Lebanon to visit children in refugee camps|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/sonny-bill-williams-headed-for-lebanon-to-visit-children-in-refugee-camps-20151128-glah4d.html|access-date=29 November 2015|work=Sydney Morning Herald|date=28 November 2015}}</ref> According to the Bulldogs [[Chief executive officer|CEO]] Todd Greenberg, Williams was "our best player [before he] walked out".<ref>{{cite web| url = http://m.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/how-to-save-game-from-one-who-knows-20110115-19rto.html| title = How to save game, from one who knows| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| date = 16 January 2011| access-date =17 July 2011}}</ref> The circumstances in which he left the Bulldogs created a media debate in Australia and New Zealand, and Williams was the subject of considerable criticism for a departure that was described as the greatest act of treachery in the game's history.<ref>[http://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/sonny-bill-williams-and-roosters-supremo-nick-politis-plan-to-honour-their-deal/story-fndv38w0-1226422062790 Sonny Bill Williams and Roosters supremo Nick Politis plan to honour their deal], by Jamie Pandaram, The Daily Telegraph, dated 10 July 2012.</ref>

Williams's highest honour with Toulon was finishing runner-up in the [[2009–10 European Challenge Cup]]. On 6 June 2009 he played for [[Barbarian F.C.|the Barbarians]] in a tour match against [[Australia national rugby union team|Australia]].<ref name="Stuff.co.nz_2479721">{{cite news|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/international/2479721/Sonny-Bill-verdict-He-held-his-own|title=Sonny Bill verdict: He held his own|author=Hinton, Marc|date=7 June 2009|work= [[Stuff.co.nz]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> His contract with Toulon ended in June 2010; in the same year Toulon reportedly tabled a three-year, $6&nbsp;million offer to Williams, while the [[New Zealand Rugby Union]] (NZRU) came up with a $550,000 per year deal. He was also offered the chance to play for                             [[France national rugby union team|France]] at the 2011 World Cup.<ref name="smh.com.au"/> Williams rejected Toulon's offer, reportedly the largest in rugby union history, and opted to sign with the NZRU in a bid to play for the All Blacks.<ref>{{cite web| date = 6 June 2010| title = Williams set for NZRU contract| work = Planet Rugby| publisher = 365 Media| url = http://www.planetrugby.com/story/0,25883,16024_6193955,00.html| access-date = 31 January 2011| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100610052006/http://www.planetrugby.com/story/0,25883,16024_6193955,00.html| archive-date = 10 June 2010| df = dmy-all}}</ref> He then chose to play with Canterbury in the [[ITM Cup]] and the Crusaders in the Super Rugby competition.<ref name=SBY_signs_to_Crusaders>{{cite news| last= Walter| first = Brad| date= 23 June 2010| url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-news/sbw-signs-for-canterbury-x2026-crusaders-not-bulldogs-20100622-yvsp.html| title = SBW signs for Canterbury&nbsp;... Crusaders, not Bulldogs| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| access-date =24 June 2010}}</ref>

===2010: Canterbury===
[[File:Sonny Bill Williams 2010.jpg|right|150px|thumb|Williams at training for the All Blacks, 2010.]]
On 3 September, Williams made his Canterbury debut against [[Bay of Plenty Rugby Union|Bay of Plenty]] after previously playing for the [[Belfast, New Zealand|Belfast]] Rugby Football Club in the [[Canterbury Rugby Football Union#Club rugby|CBS Canterbury Cup]].<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-news/sonny-bill-to-deliver-a-belfast-bonanza-20100804-117y7.html Sonny Bill to deliver a Belfast bonanza], by Brad Walter and Hamish Bidwell, smh.com.au, dated 5 August 2010.</ref> He was named in the reserves and eighteen minutes into the game replaced second five-eight [[Ryan Crotty]]. Williams scored his first try in Canterbury's ITM Cup loss to [[Taranaki Rugby Football Union|Taranaki]]; he followed up with tries against [[Wellington Rugby Football Union|Wellington]], [[Otago Rugby Football Union|Otago]] and [[Counties Manukau Rugby Union|Counties Manukau]]. On 9 October, Canterbury became the new holder of the [[Ranfurly Shield]],<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-sport/national-sport/7549212/A-victory-but-Sonny-Bill-Williams-is-a-loss Victory, but Sonny Bill Williams a loss], by Marc Hinton, stuff.co.nz, dated 26 August 2012.</ref> and on 5 November they were crowned ITM Cup Champions after defeating [[Waikato Rugby Union|Waikato]] 33–13. On 17 October, Williams was named in the [[New Zealand national rugby union team|All Blacks]] squad to tour Hong Kong and the Northern Hemisphere.<ref name = all-black-call-up>{{cite news| url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10681180| title=Williams named in All Blacks squad| work = NZ Herald| publisher = APN Holdings| date = 17 October 2010| access-date =17 October 2010}}</ref> This would make him only the fourth person to have played for the All Blacks before having played any Super Rugby, since Super Rugby exists.<ref>[http://stats.allblacks.com/asp/Profile.asp?ABID=1108 Sonny Bill Williams], by Nic Rutherford, New Zealand Rugby Museum.</ref>

He made his highly anticipated New Zealand debut at [[Twickenham Stadium|Twickenham]] against England on 6 November. He started at outside centre and combined with [[Ma'a Nonu]] to form the heaviest ever All Black midfield partnership at {{convert|212|kg}}.<ref>{{cite web| date = 9 November 2010| title = All Blacks: Clash of the backline heavyweights| url = http://m.nzherald.co.nz/all-blacks/news/article.php?c_id=116&objectid=10685432| archive-url = https://archive.today/20130223101822/http://m.nzherald.co.nz/all-blacks/news/article.php?c_id=116&objectid=10685432| url-status = dead| archive-date = 23 February 2013| work = NZ Herald| publisher = APN Holdings| access-date = 9 November 2010}}</ref><ref name = independent-sonnys-debut>{{cite news| date = 6 November 2010| work = Independent| location = UK| title = New Zealand gripped by talk of Sonny's debut| url = https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/new-zealand-gripped-by-talk-of-sonnys-debut-2126589.html| access-date =27 January 2011}}</ref> In playing for the All Blacks he became the first person since [[Karl Ifwersen]], in the 1920s, to represent New Zealand in rugby union after first playing for New Zealand in rugby league.<ref>{{cite web| date = 23 December 2010| title = Sonny Bill sticks to guns despite unfriendly fire| url = http://m.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-news/sonny-bill-sticks-to-guns-despite-unfriendly-fire-20101222-195m7.html| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| access-date =23 December 2010}}</ref> On 13 November, in his second game for the All Blacks, Williams was awarded the [[Man of the match#Rugby league and rugby union|man-of-the-match]] for his performance against [[Scotland national rugby union team|Scotland]].<ref name = odt-sbw-hard-to-handle>{{cite web| date = 14 November 2010| url = http://www.odt.co.nz/sport/rugby/136240/rugby-untouchable-sbw-hard-handle| title =Rugby: Untouchable SBW hard to handle| work = Otago Daily Times| publisher = Allied Press}}</ref><ref name = all-black-scotland>{{cite news| first = Chris| last = Brereton| date = 13 November 2010| work = Reuters| location = Edinburgh| url = http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKLDE6AC0E020101113| archive-url = https://archive.today/20130201061150/http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKLDE6AC0E020101113| url-status = dead| archive-date = 1 February 2013| title = Rugby-Sonny Bill Williams excels as All Blacks crush Scots| access-date =21 November 2010}}</ref>

===2011: Crusaders===
[[File:2011 Super Rugby Crusaders vs Waratahs 68.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Williams playing for the Crusaders, 2011.]]
On 4 March, Williams made his [[2011 Super Rugby season|2011 Super Rugby]] debut for the Crusaders against the [[New South Wales Waratahs|Waratahs]], scoring a try and setting up another.<ref>{{cite web| first = Adrian| last = Warren| url = http://m.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-match-report/sonnys-sides-up-as-crusaders-crush-the-waratahs-20110304-1bi1t.html| title = Sonny's side's up as Crusaders crush the Waratahs| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| date = 4 March 2011| access-date =2 April 2011}}</ref> A week later he scored his second try against the [[ACT Brumbies]].<ref>{{cite news| first = Adrian| last = Warren| url = http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-sport/lazy-brumbies-crash-to-third-straight-loss-20110311-1brc3.html| title = Lazy Brumbies crash to third straight loss| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| date = 4 March 2011}}</ref> On 27 March he returned to Twickenham to play against the [[Sharks (Super rugby franchise)|Sharks]] in the first Super Rugby match played outside of New Zealand, Australia or South Africa.<ref>{{cite news| author = NZPA| url = http://www.nzherald.co.nz/rugby/news/article.cfm?c_id=80&objectid=10715373| title = Sonny Bill stars at Twickers| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| date = 16 January 2011| access-date =2 March 2011}}</ref> On 9 April, in his fifth game for the Crusaders, Williams scored his third try.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyunion/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=rugby/11/04/09/RUGBYU_Crusaders_Nightlead.html&BID=504| title = Crusaders crush Bulls| date=9 April 2011| publisher= Sporting Life}}</ref> On 23 April, Williams, playing off the reserves bench against the [[Highlanders (rugby)|Highlanders]], experienced his first rugby defeat since his All Black debut more than five months earlier.<ref>{{cite web| author = AFP| date = 23 April 2011| url = http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/9250274/rugbyu-highlanders-claim-prized-crusaders-scalp/| title = Highlanders claim prized Crusaders scalp| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110428082233/http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/9250274/rugbyu-highlanders-claim-prized-crusaders-scalp/| archive-date = 28 April 2011| df = dmy-all}}</ref> A week later he scored his fourth try while playing against the [[Western Force]].<ref>[http://mobi.supersport.com/rugby/super-rugby/news/110430/Crusaders_leave_it_late_against_Force Crusaders leave it late against Force], by Gavin Rich, 30 April 2011.</ref> On 7 May, Williams played his first rugby match in South Africa, in the Crusaders' victory over the [[Stormers]] at [[Newlands Stadium]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/super-rugby/4976169/Crusaders-win-epic-against-Stormers| title = Crusaders win epic against Stormers| first=Tony| last=Smith| date=8 May 2011| work = Rugby Heaven| publisher = Fairfax|access-date=16 July 2011}}</ref> On 29 May he played against the [[Queensland Reds]] in a match which set a new attendance record for an Australian Super Rugby game, with 48,301 fans at [[Suncorp Stadium]].<ref>{{cite web| first = Wayne| last = Smith| date = 30 May 2011| url = http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/sport/record-crowd-witnesses-queensland-reds-epic-win-over-crusaders/story-e6frg7o6-1226065182227| title = Record crowd witnesses Queensland Reds' epic win over Crusaders| work = Australian| publisher = News Limited}}</ref> On 25 June he scored his fifth try while playing against the Sharks in the first finals week of the Super Rugby competition.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/super-rugby/5193410/Crusaders-lead-Sharks| title=Crusaders slam Sharks to make Super semis| first=Marc| last = Hinton| date=25 June 2011| work = Rugby Heaven| publisher = Fairfax}}</ref> A week later, against the Stormers in [[Cape Town]], he was part of the Crusaders team that became the first side since 1999 to win a Super Rugby semi-final outside their home country.<ref>[http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/other/canterbury-crusaders-power-past-stormers-29-10-to-set-up-super-15-final-with-queensland-reds.html Canterbury Crusaders power past Stormers 29–10 to set up Super 15 final with Queensland Reds], by The Associated Press, dated 2 July 2011.</ref> On 9 July, Williams was part of the Crusaders team which lost to the Reds in the grand final, held at Suncorp Stadium before an Australian provincial attendance record crowd of 52,113.<ref>[http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/9815160/crowning-glory-resurgent-reds/ Crowning glory for resurgent Reds] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006055012/http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/9815160/crowning-glory-resurgent-reds/ |date=6 October 2011 }}, by Chris Barclay, NZPA, 10 July 2011.</ref> He ended the Super Rugby season with the most off-loads, was second to [[Quade Cooper]] for line-break assists, was in the top ten for try assists and was 13th overall for run metres—no other centre came close to Williams's off-load and line-break assist figures.<ref>[http://www.rugbyweek.com/news/article.asp?id=31472 Sonny Bill Williams could join the Waratahs] {{webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20120912170126/http://www.rugbyweek.com/news/article.asp?id=31472 |date=12 September 2012 }}, rugbyweek.com, dated 9 August 2011.</ref><ref name="Stuff.co.nz_5519148">{{cite web| url = http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/5519148/SBW-could-quit-NZ-over-sponsorship-snag| title = SBW could quit NZ over sponsorship snag| last = Lawton| first = Aaron| date = 28 August 2011| work = Rugby Heaven| publisher = Fairfax|access-date =12 November 2011}}</ref> During his time in Christchurch, Williams was present when both the [[2010 Canterbury earthquake|2010]] and [[2011 Canterbury earthquake]]s struck.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/4692808/Sonny-Bill-Williams-one-of-the-lucky-ones| title = Sonny Bill Williams "one of the lucky ones"| first = Brad| last = Walter| date = 23 February 2011| work = Rugby Heaven| publisher = Fairfax| access-date =29 February 2012}}</ref>

[[File:Sonny-bill.jpg|thumb|Williams playing for the All Blacks, 2011.]]
On 30 July, Williams played his first home [[Test match (rugby union)|test match]] during the second game of the [[2011 Tri Nations Series]].<ref>[http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/sport/archives/2011/07/31/2003509561 All Blacks spank 'Boks with six tries], 31 July 2011.</ref> On 9 September he played in the [[2011 Rugby World Cup Pool A#New Zealand vs Tonga|opening match]] of the [[2011 Rugby World Cup]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-match-report/sbw-the-star-attraction-as-all-blacks-easily-dispatch-tonga-20110909-1k24g.html|title=SBW the star attraction as All Blacks easily dispatch Tonga|author=Robson, Toby|date=10 September 2011|work= [[The Sydney Morning Herald]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> A week later he scored his first test rugby tries during New Zealand's [[2011 Rugby World Cup Pool A#New Zealand vs Japan|second]] game, in which he played on the right [[Rugby union/wing|wing]]. The match was also the first time he had played outside the centres since playing in a handful of games on the wing and in the back row for Toulon.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20120330071944/http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8302721 All Blacks mull new position for SBW], 15 September 2011.</ref><ref>[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/newzealand/8768280/Rugby-World-Cup-2011-Sonny-Bill-Williams-gives-New-Zealand-coach-Graham-Henry-a-selection-headache-before-France-showdown.html Rugby World Cup 2011: Sonny Bill Williams gives New Zealand coach Graham Henry a selection headache before France showdown], by Oliver Pickup, telegraph.co.uk, 16 September 2011.</ref> He scored his third try of the tournament [[2011 Rugby World Cup Pool A#New Zealand vs France|against France]], in his second consecutive game playing on the wing.<ref>[https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/centurion-celebrities-with-silver-and-leaves-les-bleus-in-the-red-2360576.html Centurion celebrates with silver and leaves Les Bleus in the red], by Matt Lloyd, 25 September 2011.</ref> On 2 October, Williams scored in his third consecutive match, whilst playing [[2011 Rugby World Cup Pool A#New Zealand vs Canada|against Canada]].<ref name="TVNZ_4430826">{{cite news|url=http://tvnz.co.nz/all-blacks/v-canada-player-ratings-4430826|title=All Blacks v Canada – player ratings|author=Coogan-Reeves, Alex|date=2 October 2011|work= [[One Sport]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> New Zealand went on to win the tournament, with Williams amassing a Rugby World Cup record of three tries as a substitute player.<ref name="TVNZ_4454302">{{cite news|url=http://tvnz.co.nz/all-blacks/hybrid-sbw-winging-now-4454302|title=Hybrid SBW winging it for now|author=Matthews, Chris|date=7 October 2011|work= [[One Sport]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref>

On 31 October it was announced that Williams would join the [[Chiefs (rugby union)|Chiefs]] for the [[2012 Super Rugby season]]. His new contract allowed a "limited number" of professional boxing bouts.<ref name= Williams-signs >{{cite news| url = http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/5880888/Sonny-Bill-Williams-signs-with-Chiefs| title = Sonny Bill Williams signs with Chiefs| last = Hinton| first = Marc|date=31 October 2011| work = Rugby Heaven| publisher = Fairfax| access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref>

===2012: Chiefs===
On 25 February, Williams made his [[2012 Super Rugby season|2012 Super Rugby]] debut for the Chiefs against the Highlanders, In early March he was named as the NZRU's ''Teen Rugby Ambassador''.<ref>[http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/sbw-pushing-teen-despite-nrl-rumours-4761672 SBW pushing teen rugby despite NRL rumours], tvnz.co.nz, dated 6 March 2012.</ref> On 14 April, Williams scored his first try for the Chiefs while playing against the [[Cheetahs (rugby union)|Cheetahs]].<ref>[http://www.supersport.com/rugby/super-rugby/news/120414/Chiefs_beat_Cheetahs Sonny Bill genius takes Chiefs top], supersport.com, by Gavin Rich, dated 14 April 2012.</ref> On 13 May he scored his second try in the Chiefs' first loss since their club record of nine consecutive wins.<ref>[http://www.sportinglife.com/rugbyunion/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=rugby/12/05/13/RUGBYU_Reds_Nightlead.html&BID=504 Reds 42 Chiefs 27], sportinglife.com, dated 13 May 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/sport/6786854/Chiefs-battle-past-Sharks-to-stay-top-of-table/ Chiefs battle past Sharks to stay top of table], by Evan Pegden, dated 22 April 2012.</ref> On 2 June he scored his third try while playing against the [[Blues (Super Rugby)|Blues]].<ref>[http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-sport/chiefs-leave-it-late-to-beat-blues-20120602-1zoqf.html Chiefs leave it late to beat Blues], smh.com.au, dated 2 June 2012.</ref> During the [[2012 mid-year rugby test series|mid-year rugby test series]], Williams played in all three of New Zealand's matches [[2012 Ireland rugby union tour of New Zealand|against Ireland]], scoring two tries in the last game of the series. On 6 July he scored his fourth try for the Chiefs—this time against his former club, the Crusaders.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Gavin Rich|title=Crusaders stay alive with dramatic win|url=http://www.sarugby.co.za/article.aspx?id=1465741&leagueid=1041|access-date=10 June 2016|work=supersport.com|date=6 July 2012}}</ref> On 4 August, Williams played in the Chiefs' 37–6 victory against the [[Sharks (rugby union)|Sharks]] in the [[2012 Super Rugby Final|Super Rugby final]], scoring the last try of the match then celebrating by leaping into the home crowd.<ref>[http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/rugby-gold/sonny-bill-williams-finishes-sting-in-new-zealand-rugby-with-super-15-victory-for-chiefs-over-sharks/story-fn8ouw0e-1226442937423 Sonny Bill Williams finishes sting in New Zealand rugby with Super 15 victory for Chiefs over Sharks], by Jamie Pandaram, The Daily Telegraph, dated 5 August 2012.</ref> With this victory, Williams became only the fourth person, after [[Peter Ryan (rugby league)|Peter Ryan]], [[Brad Thorn]] and [[Will Chambers]], to have won both an NRL and Super Rugby title.<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10818066 Sonny Bill Williams good but not Brad], by Paul Lewis, nzherald.co.nz, dated 8 July 2012.</ref> He also ended the season with the most off-loads (for a second consecutive year),<ref>[http://www.sanzarrugby.com/superrugby/news/the-unofficial-super-rugby-academy-awards-for-2013/ THE Unofficial Super Rugby Academy Awards for 2013], By SANZAR News Service, dated 6 August 2013.</ref> most tackle busts, most line-breaks<ref>{{cite news|author1=Dominic Burke|title=Sonny Bill Williams, David Pocock, James O'Connor and co: the stars ready to make their mark again in Super Rugby|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/super-rugby/sonny-bill-williams-david-pocock-james-oconnor-and-co-the-stars-ready-to-make-their-mark-again-in-super-rugby/story-e6frf4qu-1227207922093|access-date=10 February 2015|work=FOX SPORTS|date=4 February 2015}}</ref> and most turnovers gained.<ref>{{cite web|title=STATS FEATURE: THE ENTERTAINERS|url=http://www.sanzarrugby.com/superrugby/news/stats-feature-the-entertainers/|publisher=SANZAR Super Rugby|access-date=13 April 2015|date=12 March 2015}}</ref> He was also awarded the Chiefs' players' player award.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/roosters-bid-for-title-glory-the-real-prizefight-for-sbw-20131012-2vf65.html Roosters' bid for title glory the real prizefight for SBW], by Brad Walter, The Sydney Morning Herald, dated 13 October 2013.</ref>

On 18 August, Williams played for the All Blacks in the [[2012 Rugby Championship#Fixtures|first match]] of the inaugural [[The Rugby Championship|Rugby Championship]].<ref>[http://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/rugby-union/sbw-has-last-laugh-as-decoy-ploy-succeeds/story-e6frg7o6-1226453652001 SBW has last laugh as decoy ploy succeeds], The Australian, by Bret Harris, dated 20 August 2012.</ref> The following week, he ended his two-year tenure in New Zealand rugby with a man-of-the-match performance in New Zealand's [[Bledisloe Cup]] winning [[2012 Rugby Championship#Round 2|22–0]] victory over Australia.<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10829547 All Blacks: Sonny Bill pumped for farewell], by Wynne Gray, nzherald.co.nz, 26 August 2012.</ref>

===2012–13: Panasonic===
On 9 July 2012, Williams announced he would be playing for the [[Panasonic Wild Knights]] in the Japanese [[Top League]] during the [[2012–13 Top League|2012–13 season]]—with the allowance to have one boxing fight during the season—before returning to rugby league.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/7249505/Its-Sushi-Boy-Williams-Sonny-off-to-Japan It's Sushi Boy Williams, Sonny off to Japan], stuff.co.nz, by Evan Pegden, dated 10 July 2012.</ref> The Panasonic deal was thought to be the largest one-season contract in rugby union history.<ref>[https://archive.today/20130121071616/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/rugby/wires/07/31/2080.ap.rgu.new.zealand.sonny.bill.124/index.html Sonny Bill keen to play in Rugby Championship], Sports Illustrated, dated 31 July 2012.</ref> He was also expected to be heavily involved in the promotion of the [[2019 Rugby World Cup]] in Japan, the country being the main host of the event.<ref>[http://www.3news.co.nz/VIDEO-Sonny-Bill-Williams-announces-move-to-Japan-press-conference/tabid/415/articleID/260634/Default.aspx Video: Sonny Bill Williams confirms move to Japan, then NRL], by 3 News online staff, dated 9 July 2012.</ref> On 9 September, a week after sitting out the Top League season opener to be given time to adjust after coming off recent All Blacks duties,<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10832678 Sonny Bill Williams takes field], NZ Herald, dated 9 September 2012.</ref> Williams made his debut for Panasonic against [[NTT Communications Shining Arcs]].<ref>[http://www.espnscrum.com/scrum/rugby/story/169622.html Sonny Bill tastes defeat on debut in Japan], ESPN, dated 9 September 2012.</ref> On 22 September he scored his first try for Panasonic, while playing against [[Toshiba Brave Lupus]].<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10835987 Rugby: SBW scores first try in Japan], nzherald.co.nz, dated 23 September 2012.</ref> On 27 October, Williams scored his second try during Panasonic's [[2012–13 Top League#Round 8|eighth round]] victory over the [[Kintetsu Liners]];<ref>[http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/rugby-gold/sonny-bill-williams-hurt-in-japanese-rugby/story-fn8ti7yn-1226504631404 Sonny Bill Williams hurt in Japanese rugby], AAP, dated 28 October 2012.</ref> however, the match would be his final game of the season after sustaining an injury when he landed awkwardly on his shoulder following a tackle.<ref name="Sonny Bill postpones Botha fight">[http://www.sportlive.co.za/moresport/boxing/2012/10/31/sonny-bill-postpones-botha-fight Sonny Bill postpones Botha fight], Sapa and Reuters, dated 31 October 2012.</ref>

===2014: Counties===
On 20 December 2013 it was announced that Williams would return to rugby union with the Chiefs on a two-year deal starting in 2015. He also aimed to represent New Zealand in the [[2015 Rugby World Cup]] and in [[rugby sevens at the 2016 Summer Olympics]].<ref>[http://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/rugby-union/sonny-bill-williams-to-return-to-rugby-union-in-new-zealand-in-2015/story-e6frg7o6-1226787141116 Sonny Bill Williams to return to Rugby union in New Zealand in 2015], AAP, dated 20 December 2013.</ref> On 15 June 2014, Williams signed a two-year deal, starting in 2015, to play in the ITM Cup with [[Counties Manukau Rugby Union|Counties Manukau]]—reuniting with his former Toulon coach Tana Umaga.<ref>[http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/sonny-bill-williams-signs-counties-6003563 Sonny Bill Williams signs with Counties], Fairfax, dated 16 June 2014.</ref> However, on 8 October 2014 he started his contract with Counties a year early when he made his debut for the club [[2014 ITM Cup#Round 9|against]] Auckland, only twelve days after his last game for the Roosters.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/10558135/Sonny-Bill-Williams-to-turn-out-for-Counties Sonny Bill Williams to turn out for Counties], by Shaun Eade (additional reporting from Liam Napier), Stuff.co.nz, dated 30 September 2014.</ref><ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11339376 Rugby: Sonny Bill returns], by Campbell Burnes, NZ Herald, dated 8 October 2014.</ref> He played the following game, which was also his club's final game of the season.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/sport/10609350/Finned-fans-flock-to-see-Makos-heroes-SBW Finned fans flock to see Makos heroes, SBW], by Chloe Winter, The Marlborough Express, dated 13 October 2014.</ref>

On 20 October, Williams was named in the All Blacks' squad to [[2014 end-of-year rugby union internationals|tour]] the US and UK in November.<ref>[http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/sonny-bill-williams-return-all-blacks-kept-simple-6112343 Sonny Bill Williams return to All Blacks to be kept simple], ONE News, dated 20 October 2014.</ref> On 1 November, he made his return to international rugby against the [[United States national rugby union team|United States]], scoring twice in a man-of-the-match performance.<ref>[http://www.3news.co.nz/sport/abs-eagles-test-success-on-and-off-the-field-2014110218 ABs-Eagles Test success on and off the field], by Hamish McKay, 3 News, dated 2 November 2014.</ref> He went on to play in every other game of the tour.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/63461468/steve-hansen-set-to-sign-beyond-next-world-cup.html Steve Hansen set to sign beyond next World Cup], by Toby Robson, The Dominion Post, dated 24 November 2014.</ref>

===2015: Chiefs===
On 14 February, Williams marked his [[2015 Super Rugby season|2015 Super Rugby]] return to the Chiefs with a victory over the Blues in the [[2015 Super Rugby season#Round 1|first round]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=ESPN Staff|title=SBW fires Chiefs past Blues in NZ derby|url=http://www.espnscrum.com/super-rugby-2015/rugby/story/256203.html|access-date=14 February 2015|work=ESPN}}</ref> Two weeks later, he scored his first try of the season against his former club, the Crusaders.<ref>{{cite news|title=Rampant Chiefs thrash Crusaders|url=http://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/rampant-chiefs-thrash-crusaders-1.1825009#.VPLZEXyUeSq|access-date=1 March 2015|work=AFP|date=28 February 2015}}</ref> On 13 June, after being sidelined for a month with a back injury, Williams returned in the final round of the regular season.<ref>{{cite news|title=Super Rugby: Brumbies lose game and season|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/rugby-union/super-rugby-brumbies-lose-game-and-season/story-e6frg7o6-1227396377916|access-date=13 June 2015|work=AAP|date=13 June 2015}}</ref> The following week, Williams was part of the Chiefs' team that lost to the Highlanders in the quarter-finals.<ref>{{cite news|title=HIGHLANDERS MOVE ON TO SEMI-fINALS|url=http://www.sanzarrugby.com/superrugby/news/highlanders-move-on-to-semi-finals/|access-date=21 June 2015|publisher=SANZAR Super Rugby|date=20 June 2015}}</ref> Despite having played only ten of the sixteen regular season games, Williams had the second most offloads, and his nine line-break assists were the highest of any player with ten matches or less.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Tim Elbra|title=Sonny Bill Williams: How superstar's All Blacks finale will play out, best and worst case scenarios|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/sonny-bill-williams-how-superstars-all-blacks-finale-will-play-out-best-and-worst-case-scenarios/story-e6frf4pu-1227410958890|access-date=23 June 2015|work=FOX SPORTS|date=23 June 2015}}</ref>

On 8 July, Williams played in New Zealand's first test of the year, in a historic match [[2015 mid-year rugby union internationals#Week 5|against]] [[Samoa national rugby union team|Samoa]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.espn.co.uk/scrum/rugby/story/268343.html|title = Samoa v All Blacks offers hope for the rugby soul}}</ref> The following week he teamed up with Ma'a Nonu in the midfield against Argentina, in the opening match of the [[2015 Rugby Championship]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=LIAM NAPIER|title=New Zealand vs Argentina: How the All Blacks rated|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/70309667/new-zealand-vs-argentina-how-the-all-blacks-rated|access-date=17 July 2015|work=Stuff|date=17 July 2015}}</ref> On 8 August, Williams played in New Zealand's loss against Australia in the Rugby Championship decider; he also sustained an injury which prevented him from playing in the following weeks' Bledisloe Cup match.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bledisloe Cup: All Blacks swing axe ahead of Eden Park Test against Wallabies|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/bledisloe-cup-all-blacks-swing-axe-ahead-of-eden-park-test-against-wallabies/story-e6frf4pu-1227481263985?sv=d9286cb9f97c04a56584d5b6fbf60fa2|access-date=13 August 2015|work=AAP|publisher=FOX SPORTS|date=13 August 2015}}</ref>

On 19 August, Williams was named in coach [[Gordon Tietjens]]' initial squad to represent [[New Zealand at the 2016 Summer Olympics]] in [[rugby sevens]]. Williams said he would commit to rugby sevens full-time following the Rugby World Cup and leading up to the Olympics, in an effort to make the final squad.<ref>{{cite news|author1=EMMA STONEY|title=Sonny Bill Williams Switches to Rugby Sevens for a Shot at Rio|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/20/sports/rugby/sonny-bill-williams-switches-to-rugby-sevens-for-a-shot-at-rio.html?_r=0|access-date=19 August 2015|work=The New York Times|date=19 August 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author1=TOBY ROBSON|title=Sonny Bill Williams to go all out in bid to make New Zealand's Olympic sevens squad video|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/71265876/sonny-bill-williams-to-go-all-out-in-bid-to-make-new-zealands-olympic-sevens-squad|access-date=19 August 2015|work=The Dominion Post|date=19 August 2015}}</ref>

[[File:New Zealand vs Namibia 2015 RWC (4).jpg|right|300px|thumb|Williams during the 2015 Rugby World Cup.]]
On 30 August, Williams was named in New Zealand's [[2015 Rugby World Cup squads#New Zealand|31-man squad]] for the [[2015 Rugby World Cup]].<ref>{{cite news|title=SBW feels he's hitting his straps|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/sport/282874/sbw-feels-he's-hitting-his-straps|access-date=31 August 2015|work=Radio New Zealand|date=31 August 2015}}</ref> On 20 September, he played off the bench in New Zealand's opening game victory [[2015 Rugby World Cup Pool C#New Zealand vs Argentina|against]] Argentina.<ref>{{cite news|author1=John Day|title=Opinion: Sonny Bill Williams sets Rugby World Cup benchmark|url=http://www.3news.co.nz/sport/opinion-sonny-bill-williams-sets-rugby-world-cup-benchmark-2015092112#axzz3mKsjO1mY|access-date=21 September 2015|work=3 News|date=21 September 2015}}</ref> Four days later, Williams played in New Zealand's first-ever test match against [[Namibia national rugby union team|Namibia]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=Gregor Paul|title=All Blacks fail to impress in 44-point win against Namibia|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/rugby/news/article.cfm?c_id=80&objectid=11518750|access-date=26 September 2015|work=NZ Herald|date=25 September 2015}}</ref> On 2 October, Williams played in New Zealand's first-ever test match against [[Georgia national rugby union team|Georgia]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Lelos frustrate awful All Blacks|url=http://sport.iafrica.com/rugby/1007813.html|access-date=4 October 2015|work=Rugby365|date=3 October 2015}}</ref> The following week, he scored a try in New Zealand's final pool stage match [[2015 Rugby World Cup Pool C#New Zealand vs Tonga|against]] Tonga.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Christy Doran|title=Rugby World Cup: All Blacks player ratings from final pool match against Tonga at St James Park|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/rugby/rugby-world-cup-all-blacks-player-ratings-from-final-pool-match-against-tonga-at-st-james-park/story-e6frf4pu-1227564260793|access-date=11 October 2015|work=FOX SPORTS|date=10 October 2015}}</ref> On 17 October, Williams was a part of New Zealand's record-setting quarter-final victory [[2015 Rugby World Cup knockout stage#New Zealand vs France|against]] France, before playing in the semi-final victory against South Africa.<ref>{{cite news|author1=David Agnew|title=Player ratings: All Blacks v France|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/sport/rugby/player-ratings-all-blacks-v-france-q16143.html|access-date=18 October 2015|work=TVNZ|date=18 October 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author1=TOBY ROBSON|title=Sonny Bill Williams' compassion in moment of Rugby World Cup joy|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/73361398/Sonny-Bill-Williams-compassion-in-moment-of-Rugby-World-Cup-joy|access-date=27 October 2015|work=Stuff|date=25 October 2015}}</ref> He went on to play in New Zealand's victory against Australia in [[2015 Rugby World Cup final|the final]], before gifting his winner's medal to a 14-year old fan who had been tackled by a security guard during the lap of honour; however, he was presented with a second medal at the [[World Rugby Awards#2015|World Rugby Awards]] the following day.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sonny Bill Williams gives World Cup medal to stunned 14-year-old fan|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/oct/31/sonny-bill-williams-world-cup-winners-medal-14-year-old-fan|date=1 November 2015|access-date=1 November 2015|work=The Observer}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Sonny Bill Williams given second winners medal|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/sport/288596/sonny-bill-williams-given-second-winners-medal|access-date=2 November 2015|work=Radio New Zealand|date=2 November 2015}}</ref> His performance during the tournament, along with those of his midfield partners, was praised by coach [[Steve Hansen]]: "Not only have we lost Ma'a and Conrad we've also lost Sonny. They were the three guys that set the World Cup on fire and allowed us to have a one, two, three punch."<ref>{{cite news|author1=Joe Porter|title=Who will be part of the new All Blacks era?|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/sport/304950/who-will-be-part-of-the-new-all-blacks-era|access-date=27 May 2016|work=[[RNZ]] |date=27 May 2016}}</ref>

===2016: Rugby sevens===
On 11 January, Williams began training with the [[All Blacks Sevens]] team.<ref>{{cite news|author1=BEN STRANG|title=All Blacks superstar Sonny Bill Williams learning fast in first New Zealand Sevens camp|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/75854452/All-Blacks-superstar-Sonny-Bill-Williams-learning-fast-in-first-New-Zealand-Sevens-camp|access-date=13 January 2016|work=Stuff.co.nz|date=13 January 2016}}</ref> However, his introduction to the sport and national team began at the [[2015 Dubai Sevens]], as a guest of the tournament, where he also witnessed the debut of his sister, Niall, for the New Zealand women's team.<ref>{{cite news|author1=BEN STRANG|title=Sonny Bill Williams proves rugby's biggest global star in Middle East|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/74777531/sonny-bill-williams-proves-rugbys-biggest-global-star-in-middle-east|access-date=13 January 2016|work=Stuff.co.nz|date=6 December 2015}}</ref> His inclusion in the international sevens arena has been "Touted as the biggest gain from the 15-a-side ranks".<ref>{{cite news|author1=Chris Laidlaw|author-link1=Chris Laidlaw|title=All Blacks ready to dominate sevens in Rio|url=http://www.theroar.com.au/2016/02/11/all-blacks-ready-to-dominate-sevens-in-rio/|access-date=11 February 2016|work=The Roar|date=11 Feb 2016}}</ref> On 25 January, Williams was named in the squad for the [[2016 Wellington Sevens]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Tietjens: Williams ahead of schedule|url=http://www.3news.co.nz/sport/tietjens-williams-ahead-of-schedule-2016012519#axzz3yFCgX1Q3|access-date=25 January 2016|work=NZN|agency=3NewsNZ|date=25 January 2016}}</ref> On 30 January, he marked his international debut [[2016 Wellington Sevens#Pool A|against Russia]], scoring a try with his first touch of the ball.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Hamish Bidwell|title=Sonny Bill Williams makes immediate impact in Sevens debut for New Zealand|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-union/new-zealand-rugby/sonny-bill-williams-makes-immediate-impact-in-sevens-debut-for-new-zealand-20160130-gmhma5.html|access-date=30 January 2016|work=Sydney Morning Herald|date=30 January 2016}}</ref> He went on to play in the remainder of New Zealand's pool matches.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Paul Peerdeman|title=Analysing Sonny Bill Williams' Sevens Debut|url=http://www.punditarena.com/rugby/ppeerdeman/analysing-sonny-bill-williams-sevens-debut/|access-date=31 January 2016|work=Pundit Arena|date=30 January 2016}}</ref> The following day, Williams played in the quarter-final against Kenya, scored a try in the semi-final against England and played in the final's victory against South Africa.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ioane powers NZ into sevens quarter-finals|url=http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2016/01/31/ioane-powers-nz-sevens-quarter-finals|access-date=31 January 2016|work=AAP|date=31 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author1=HAMISH BIDWELL|title=New Zealand all class on their way to Wellington Sevens final video|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/76425699/New-Zealand-all-class-on-their-way-to-Wellington-Sevens-final|access-date=31 January 2016|work=Dominion Post|date=31 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=All Blacks down South Africa in sevens final|url=http://tenplay.com.au/news/2016/01/31/all-blacks-down-south-africa-in-sevens-final|access-date=31 January 2016|work=AFP|date=31 January 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201094243/http://tenplay.com.au/news/2016/01/31/all-blacks-down-south-africa-in-sevens-final|archive-date=1 February 2016|df=dmy-all}}</ref> After Wellington, he played in the following [[2016 Sydney Sevens]], including the victory against Australia in the final.<ref>{{cite news|author1=BEN STRANG|title=Rieko Ioane scores after final hooter as New Zealand claim Sydney Sevens glory|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/76659766/rieko-ioane-scores-after-final-hooter-as-new-zealand-claim-sydney-sevens-glory|access-date=8 February 2016|work=Stuff|date=7 February 2016}}</ref> He was rested for the subsequent [[2016 USA Sevens|2016 Las Vegas Sevens]] and was then ruled out of the [[2016 Canada Sevens]] due to a swollen knee.<ref>{{cite news|title=SBW rested as Messam returns for All Blacks Sevens in Las Vegas|url=http://www.newshub.co.nz/sport/sbw-rested-as-messam-returns-for-all-blacks-sevens-in-las-vegas-2016030411#axzz41vKpZpz0|access-date=4 March 2016|work=[[Newshub]] |date=4 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Sonny Bill Williams returns home early from sevens trip with 'irritable knee'|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/77596658/Sonny-Bill-Williams-to-miss-Canada-sevens-returning-home-with-leg-injury|access-date=6 March 2016|work=Stuff|date=6 March 2016}}</ref> Williams returned from injury against France in the [[2016 Hong Kong Sevens]] and scored a try in the final pool stage game against Samoa.<ref>{{cite news|title=Williams brushes off Toulon reports as New Zealand survive scare against France|url=http://www.gulf-times.com/story/487839/Williams-brushes-off-Toulon-reports-as-New-Zealand|access-date=9 April 2016|work=AFP|date=8 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=New Zealand overcome injuries to go unbeaten in group stages in Hong Kong|url=http://ur7s.com/news/new-zealand-overcome-injuries-to-go-unbeaten-in-group-stages-in-hong-kong|website=UR7s|access-date=9 April 2016|date=9 April 2016}}</ref> He went on to play in the quarter-final against Wales, the semi-final against South Africa and the loss against Fiji in the final.<ref>{{cite news|title=New Zealand to face South Africa in Hong Kong Sevens semifinals after Wales win|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/78753026/New-Zealand-advance-to-Hong-Kong-Sevens-semifinals-with-win-over-Wales|access-date=10 April 2016|work=Stuff|date=10 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Video highlights: All Blacks Sevens edge South Africa 12–7 - Hong Kong Sevens|url=http://www.newshub.co.nz/sport/video-highlights-all-blacks-sevens-edge-south-africa-12-7---hong-kong-sevens-2016041020|access-date=10 April 2016|work=[[Newshub]] |date=10 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author1=TOM HISCOTT|title=Fiji claim third title of the season, winning prestigious Hong Kong Sevens|url=http://www.vavel.com/en/rugby/631191-fiji-claim-third-title-of-the-season-winning-prestigious-hong-kong-sevens.html|access-date=10 April 2016|work=VAVEL|date=10 April 2016}}</ref> The following week he played in the [[2016 Singapore Sevens]], losing to Samoa in the second-tier Plate final.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sonny Bill Williams starting to excel in sevens as Rio Olympics loom|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/79020977/sonny-bill-williams-starting-to-excel-in-sevens-as-rio-olympics-loom|access-date=18 April 2016|work=Stuff|date=18 April 2016}}</ref> He went on to play in the [[2016 Paris Sevens]]; however, his tournament was cut short by a knee injury.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Campbell Burnes|title=Rugby Sevens need old hands back in fold|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11639841|access-date=18 May 2016|work=NZ Herald|date=17 May 2016}}</ref> The following week he played in the [[2016 London Sevens]], the final tournament of the [[2015–16 World Rugby Sevens Series|World Series]], scoring a try against Russia.<ref>{{cite news|author1=BEN STRANG|title=New Zealand through to quarterfinals at London Sevens|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/80248631/new-zealand-begin-london-sevens-campaign-with-a-win|access-date=22 May 2016|work=Stuff|date=22 May 2016}}</ref> His tournament was again cut short, by an ankle injury early in the quarter-final loss to the United States, with New Zealand finishing the World Series in third place.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hard work ahead for All Black Sevens|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/sport/304528/hard-work-ahead-for-all-black-sevens|access-date=23 May 2016|work=Radio New Zealand|date=23 May 2016}}</ref>

On 1 June, Williams announced he had signed a three-year deal (his longest commitment since 2008) to stay with New Zealand rugby until the [[2019 Rugby World Cup]] and would be joining the [[Blues (Super Rugby)|Blues]] in 2017, linking with coach [[Tana Umaga]] for the third time in his rugby career.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sonny Bill Williams signs three-year deal with Blues|url=http://www.newshub.co.nz/sport/sonny-bill-williams-signs-three-year-deal-with-the-blues-2016060110|access-date=1 June 2016|work=[[Newshub]] |date=1 June 2016}}</ref>

On 3 July, Williams was [[Rugby sevens at the 2016 Summer Olympics – Men's team squads#New Zealand|selected]] to represent New Zealand in [[Rugby sevens at the 2016 Summer Olympics – Men's tournament|the men's rugby sevens at the 2016 Summer Olympics]]. His sister, Niall, was also [[Rugby sevens at the 2016 Summer Olympics – Women's team squads#New Zealand|selected]] to represent New Zealand in [[Rugby sevens at the 2016 Summer Olympics – Women's tournament|the women's tournament]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=MARC HINTON|title=Sonny Bill Williams so proud of his sister as they gun for golden family double in Rio|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/sevens/81712843/Sonny-Bill-Williams-so-proud-of-his-sister-as-they-gun-for-golden-family-double-in-Rio|access-date=3 July 2016|work=Stuff|date=3 July 2016}}</ref> On 9 August, in New Zealand's first game of the tournament, against Japan, Williams partially ruptured his Achilles tendon early in the second half. The injury ended Williams' Olympic campaign; New Zealand eventually finished in fifth place.

===2017–2019: Blues===
[[File:SBW chiefs blues.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Sonny Bill Williams on the run against the Chiefs, 26 May 2017]]
In 2017 Williams was part of the [[Blues (Super Rugby)|Blues super rugby]] squad. Coming back from injury, his first game for the Blues was in April against the Highlanders, a game where he made headlines for taping over the BNZ logo on his jersey.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/super-rugby/91367968/sonny-bill-williams-courts-controversy-in-super-rugby-return-by-covering-sponsors-logo|title='Conscientious objection' behind SBW taping over bank sponsor's logo on Super Rugby return|website=Stuff|date=9 April 2017}}</ref> After a patchy return from injury, Williams looked back in form when the Blues drew with the Chiefs on a rainy Auckland evening.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/sport/2017/05/blues-chiefs-grind-out-draw-in-wet-conditions-in-auckland.html| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170530172852/http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/sport/2017/05/blues-chiefs-grind-out-draw-in-wet-conditions-in-auckland.html| archive-date = 2017-05-30| title = Blues, Chiefs grind out draw in wet conditions in Auckland {{!}} Newshub}}</ref> Williams delivered a man of the match performance to help the Blues defeat the British and Irish Lions, 22–16.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/opinion/93446421/marc-hinton-chaos-rules-as-lions-hopes-go-west-on-eden-park|title=Marc Hinton: Chaos rules as Lions hopes go West on Eden Park|website=Stuff|date=7 June 2017}}</ref> With time running out and the Lions in the lead, Williams gave an offload to [[Ihaia West]] to score the match-winning try.

[[File:SBW Samoa.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Sonny Bill Williams, playing against Samoa at Eden Park 2017]]

Williams returned to the All Blacks against Samoa at [[Eden Park]] in a solid performance, where he scored a try in a 78–0 win.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/93787031/all-blacks-pound-manu-samoa-in-offtest-with-780-win|title=All Blacks pound Manu Samoa in one-off test with 78–0 win|website=Stuff|date=16 June 2017}}</ref> A week later, he started at inside centre for the All Blacks in their victory against the British and Irish Lions in the first test. However, a week later in the second test, Williams became the first All Black to be sent off in 50 years after [[Colin Meads]] was sent off in 1967, and was also the first ever to be sent off in New Zealand, for shoulder charging [[Anthony Watson (rugby union)|Anthony Watson]] to the head.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Fordyce|first1=Tom|title=British and Irish Lions beat New Zealand 24–21 to set up series decider|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/40457048|website=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|access-date=1 July 2017|date=1 July 2017}}</ref> The All Blacks went on to lose the test 24–21.
After serving his four-match suspension for his red card, Williams returned for the first Bledisloe Cup match of the year, where he scored a try in the All Blacks' record 54–34 victory.<ref name="stuff.co.nz">{{cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/96130718/sanzaar-clears-new-zealand-rugby-over-sonny-bill-williams-head-knock|title=Sanzaar clears New Zealand Rugby of 'deliberate failure' in Sonny Bill Williams' head knock|website=Stuff|date=24 August 2017}}</ref> Williams started in all New Zealand's Rugby Championship matches, with the All Blacks winning all six, including a 57–0 victory over South Africa in Auckland.

Williams finished the year by starting for the All Blacks three times on the end-of-year tour. In all, Williams played in 13 tests in 2017.

After missing a large portion of the [[2018 Super Rugby season]] due to injury, Williams made a return for New Zealand during the [[2018 Rugby Championship]], having previously played only one test during the year. He went on to play his 50th test for New Zealand, against Australia, during a 37–20 win.<ref name="stuff.co.nz2">{{cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/108121733/wisdom-comes-with-age-for-sonny-bill-williams-set-to-earn-his-50th-all-blacks-cap|title= 'Wisdom comes with age' for Sonny Bill Williams, set to earn his 50th All Blacks cap|website=Stuff|date= 25 October 2018}}</ref> Although Williams reached the milestone, he only played one test, against England, during the end-of-season tour due to his continued injury problems.

On 28 August, All Blacks Head Coach, [[Steve Hansen]] named Williams as one of 31 players in New Zealand's squad for the [[2019 Rugby World Cup]], which was Williams' third World Cup.
<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.allblacks.com/news/all-blacks-squad-named-for-rugby-world-cup-2019/ |title = All Blacks squad named for Rugby World Cup 2019 |date = 28 August 2019 | publisher = allblacks.com | access-date = 29 September 2019}}</ref> Williams joined teammates, [[Sam Whitelock]] and [[Kieran Read]] in the group of All Blacks to attend three World Cups.

Although this was Williams' third World Cup, he lost his place as a regular starter to Chiefs midfielder [[Anton Lienert-Brown]], being used as a replacement for a pool stage test against eventual Champions, South Africa, as well as two of the playoff matches, against Ireland and England. After New Zealand lost to England 7–19, Williams made a start in his final test for New Zealand in the Bronze Final, a 40–17 win over Wales, which saw the All Blacks claim third place. Williams was one of five players to finish his international career for New Zealand that day, with [[Matt Todd]], [[Ben Smith (rugby union)|Ben Smith]], [[Ryan Crotty]] and Captain, Kieran Read, all retiring that day, alongside Williams.<ref>{{cite news | url= https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/news/531385 | title= Teary Coles will not cry off his career as an All Black| date= 30 October 2019 | website=rugbyworldcup.com| access-date= 24 December 2019}}</ref>

==Boxing==
{{Infobox boxer
|name         = Sonny Bill Williams
|image        =
|imagesize    =
|realname     = Sonny Bill Williams
|nickname     = SBW
|height       =
|reach        =
|weight       =Heavyweight
|nationality =New Zealand
|birth_date   ={{birth date and age|df=yes|1985|8|3}}
|birth_place  = [[Auckland]], New Zealand
|style        = [[Orthodox stance|Orthodox]]
|total        =10
|wins         =9
|KO           =4
|losses       =1
|losses by ko =
}}
On 27 May 2009, Williams made his debut as a professional boxer on the undercard of close friend [[Anthony Mundine]],<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/2455668/Sonny-Bill-Williams-fancies-another-bout Sonny Bill Williams fancies another bout], by Brad Walter, stuff.co.nz, dated 29 May 2009.</ref> defeating Garry Gurr with a [[technical knockout]] (TKO) in the second round in Brisbane.<ref name=talent-in-debut>{{cite web| url = http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/indepth/sonny-bill-williams-shows-talent-in-boxing-debut/story-e6freygr-12257171140842| title = Sonny Bill Williams shows talent in boxing debut| work = Daily Telegraph| publisher = News| date = 27 May 2009|access-date =19 April 2010}}</ref> On 30 June 2010 he defeated Ryan Hogan in a bout that ended by TKO after only two minutes and 35 seconds. Williams described the preparation for the fight as "good off-season training" for his imminent debut for the Canterbury rugby team.<ref name="SBW gets win but turns attention to rugby">{{cite news| url = http://www.smh.com.au/sport/sbw-gets-win-but-turns-attention-to-rugby-20100701-zn2h.html
| title = SBW gets win but turns attention to rugby| work = Sydney Morning Herald| publisher = Fairfax| date=1 July 2010| access-date =1 July 2010| first=Brad| last=Walter}}</ref>

===Williams vs Lewis===
On 29 January 2011, Williams fought in his third professional match against Australian Scott Lewis at the [[Gold Coast Convention Centre]], in his first fight as the main event.<ref name="TVNZ_3974121">{{cite news|url=http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/sbw-believes-boxing-push-world-cup-claim-3974121|title=SBW believes boxing will push World Cup claim|date=15 December 2010|work= [[One Sport]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> Coincidentally, Lewis's trainer, Terry Devlin, named his youngest son after Williams—whom he called a "superb athlete".<ref>{{cite web|last=Bertola|first=Vera|url=http://macarthur-chronicle-camden.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/sonny-bill-williams-to-take-on-scott-lewis-of-bradbury/|title=Sonny Bill Williams to take on Scott Lewis, of Bradbury| publisher = Macarthur Chronicle|date=30 August 2011|access-date=3 September 2011}}</ref> Williams was initially scheduled to fight Lewis on 29 January at the [[Newcastle Entertainment Centre]]; however, the bout was moved to the Gold Coast to cross-promote Williams's Super Rugby team, the Crusaders, and their pre-season game against the [[Queensland Reds]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Leeson|first=Josh|url=https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/466697/sonny-bill-williams-toughens-up-in-newcastle/|title=Sonny Bill Williams toughens up in Newcastle|publisher= Herald| date=13 January 2011| access-date=3 September 2011}}</ref> Due to the [[2010–2011 Queensland floods]] occurring at the same time as Williams's preparation for his bout against Lewis, as well as his chief sparring partner, [[Alex Leapai]], being stranded by the flooding in [[Gatton, Queensland|Gatton]], Williams donated 200 tickets for the fight to flood victims.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/nrl/weight-row-over-stuffed-rabbit-dave-taylor/story-e6frfgbo-1225986548995| title=Sport Confidential| first=James| last=Hooper| newspaper=Daily Telegraph| date=13 January 2011}}</ref> Williams won the six-round bout against Lewis by [[Unanimous decision|unanimous points decision]]: he was scored favourably 60–55, 60–55 and 60–54 by the three judges. A fan paid $3,890 for his autographed gloves from the bout, with the money going towards the Queensland flood relief fund.<ref name="TVNZ_4010161">{{cite news|url=http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-news/sbw-ready-knuckle-down-rugby-4010161|title=SBW ready to knuckle down to rugby|date=30 January 2011|agency= [[NZPA]]|work= [[Television New Zealand]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref>

===Williams vs Liava'a===
On 5 June 2011, Williams had his fourth fight when the Crusaders had a [[Bye (sports)|bye]] week. The fight, the second of three allowed under his agreement with the NZRU, took place at [[Trusts Stadium]], [[West Auckland, New Zealand|West Auckland]], against [[Tongans|Tongan]] Alipate Liava'a.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.smh.com.au/sport/boxing/tongan-giant-expected-to-stretch-sbws-skills-20110430-1e20t.html|title=Tongan giant expected to stretch SBW's skills|author=Lawton, Aaron|date=1 May 2011|work= [[The Sydney Morning Herald]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> Williams won the bout by unanimous points decision: the fight scored 60–54 in his favour by all three judges.<ref name="boxrec1">{{cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=490827&cat=boxer|title=Sonny Bill Williams – Boxer|publisher = Boxrec|access-date=3 September 2011}}</ref> The event was promoted as a [[February 2011 Christchurch earthquake|Christchurch earthquake]] charity fight dubbed ''The Clash For Canterbury''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://m.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-news/sonny-bill-williams-to-fight-in-auckland-in-june-20110406-1d3ty.html|title=Sonny Bill Williams to fight in Auckland in June|author=Johnstone, Duncan|date=6 April 2011|agency= [[Stuff.co.nz]]|work= [[The Sydney Morning Herald]]|access-date=12 November 2011}}</ref> The fight became one of the single largest fundraisers for the 2011 Christchurch earthquake appeal when [[Sky Network Television|Sky]] donated its profits from the [[pay-per-view]] sales of the fight, and Williams made a $NZ100,000 donation from his share of TV sales—described as "one of the biggest individual donations by an athlete to a disaster appeal."<ref>{{cite web| url=http://i.stuff.co.nz/sunday-news/sport/4788466/Fighting-talk-from-SBW| title=Fighting talk from SBW| first=Steve| last=Kilgallon| date=20 March 2011| publisher = Fairfax}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=http://m.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-news/sbw-packs-big-punch-for-quake-victims-20110319-1c1bm.html| title=SBW packs big punch for quake victims| first=Brad| last=Walter| date=20 March 2011| newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald}}</ref><ref name="3News_216501">{{cite news|url=http://www.3news.co.nz/VIDEO-Huge-payday-for-Canterbury-Red-Cross-from-SBW-and-Sky/tabid/415/articleID/216501/Default.aspx|title=VIDEO: Huge payday for Canterbury Red Cross from SBW and Sky|date=25 June 2011|work=[[3 News]]|access-date=12 November 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004100826/http://www.3news.co.nz/VIDEO-Huge-payday-for-Canterbury-Red-Cross-from-SBW-and-Sky/tabid/415/articleID/216501/Default.aspx|archive-date=4 October 2012|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===Williams vs Tillman===
On 8 February 2012, Williams was supposed to fight Richard Tutaki for the vacant [[New Zealand Professional Boxing Association]] ([[NZPBA]]) Heavyweight Championship title at [[Claudelands]] Arena in [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]], after [[Shane Cameron]] vacated it to move down to the [[Cruiserweight (boxing)|cruiserweight]] division.<ref>[http://tvnz.co.nz/othersports-news/sonny-bill-williams-fight-heavyweight-belt-4599198 Sonny Bill Williams to fight for heavyweight belt], TVNZ, dated 6 December 2011.</ref><ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/6096726/Sonny-Bill-Williams-to-face-lazy-trainer-Tutaki Sonny Bill Williams to face 'lazy trainer' Tutaki], Toby Robson, stuff.co.nz, 7 December 2011.</ref> However, it was later revealed that Tutaki was facing serious criminal charges; so he was subsequently dropped from the fight card.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/other-sports/6257169/Drug-charges-for-SBWs-boxing-opponent Drug charges for SBW's boxing opponent], stuff.co.nz, dated 14 January 2012.</ref> Williams's replacement opponent was then announced to be Auckland-based American Clarence Tillman III.<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10779095 Boxing: SBW bout against Tillman confirmed], nzherald.co.nz, 16 January 2012.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxing/9068463/Sonny-Bill-Williams-knocks-out-Clarence-Tillman-in-first-round-to-win-New-Zealand-heavyweight-title.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxing/9068463/Sonny-Bill-Williams-knocks-out-Clarence-Tillman-in-first-round-to-win-New-Zealand-heavyweight-title.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Sonny Bill Williams knocks out Clarence Tillman in first round to win New Zealand heavyweight title| publisher = Daily Telegraph|date=8 February 2012|access-date=21 February 2012}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The fight was dubbed the ''Battle for the Belt''.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/news/6098233/Its-official-SBW-to-fight-at-Arena It's official – SBW to fight at Arena], Matt Bowen, Waikato Times, 7 December 2011.</ref> Williams went on to claim the title belt by technical knockout after a left [[Hook (boxing)|hook]] and a series of further blows on Tillman forced referee [[Lance Revill]] to stop the fight in the first round.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/sport/national-sport/6386742/Tillman-floored-by-Sonny-Bill-Williams-in-first-round Tillman KO'd by Sonny Bill Williams in first round], by Duncan Johnstone, stuff.co.nz, dated 8 February 2012.</ref> Following the bout, Williams rejected an offer to join the boxing stable of fight promoter [[Don King (boxing promoter)|Don King]].<ref>[http://tvnz.co.nz/rugby-league-news/tigers-trying-snare-sonny-bill-report-4774341 Tigers trying to snare Sonny Bill – report], by David Skipwith, TVNZ, dated 13 March 2012.</ref>

===Williams vs Botha===
On 24 November 2012, during the Japanese Top League's November break, Williams was due to fight South African former heavyweight contender [[Francois Botha]] at the [[Brisbane Entertainment Centre]].<ref>[http://www.radiosport.co.nz/news/spspo/1631220889-sonny-bill-williams-locked-in-for-next-fight Sonny Bill Williams locked in for next fight] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130219002951/http://radiosport.co.nz/news/spspo/1631220889-sonny-bill-williams-locked-in-for-next-fight |date=19 February 2013 }}, by Andy Rowe, radiosport.co.nz, dated 23 October 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.sportlive.co.za/moresport/boxing/2012/10/24/white-buffalo-tells-sonny-bill-he-will-face-a-real-boxer White Buffalo tells Sonny Bill he will face a 'real' boxer], Sbu Mjikeliso, sportlive.co.za, dated 24 October 2012.</ref> However, the bout was postponed to 8 February 2013 after Williams required surgery for a right [[pectoralis major muscle|pectoral muscle]] injury sustained while playing for Panasonic on 27 October.<ref name="Sonny Bill postpones Botha fight"/> The fight was for the vacant WBA International Heavyweight title. The event also marked the boxing debut of Williams's close friend and fellow rugby player, [[Quade Cooper]], on the undercard.<ref>[http://www.sportal.com.au/league-news-display/sbw-dangles-carrot-to-lure-cooper-210897 SBW dangles carrot to lure Cooper] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121129043229/http://www.sportal.com.au/league-news-display/sbw-dangles-carrot-to-lure-cooper-210897 |date=29 November 2012 }}, by Steve Orme, Sportal, dated 26 November 2012.</ref> After dominating most rounds but on the verge of being knocked out in the last round, Williams went on to win the bout by unanimous points decision, with the judges scoring 98–94, 97–91 and 97–91 in his favour.<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/boxing/news/article.cfm?c_id=23&objectid=10864341 Angry scenes after controversial Sonny Bill Williams victory], by Patrick McKendry, nzherald.co.nz, dated 9 February 2013.</ref> However, the victory was marred by controversy because at late notice (and unbeknownst to most people) the fight was shortened to ten rounds, instead of the scheduled twelve. [[Australian National Boxing Federation]] committee member John Hogg later stated that the decision to cut the bout short was made just before the fight started, with the approval of officials and both Williams's and Botha's camps; however, Botha was not informed of the change by his own camp.<ref>[http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1735222/SBW-wins-fight-crowd-not-happy SBW fight was fair: boxing official], sbs.com.au, 9 February 2013.</ref>

In October 2013, Williams revealed he would not fight again for at least another three years due to a lack of time as he pursued his footballing goals and commitments.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/league/9320894/Sonny-Bill-rules-out-boxing-for-three-years Sonny Bill rules out any boxing for three years], by David Long, stuff.co.nz, dated 24 October 2013.</ref> This led to him being stripped of his two boxing titles in mid-December 2013.<ref>[http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-12-15/sonny-bill-williams-stripped-of-new-zealand-heavyweight-title/5157502 Sonny Bill Williams forfeits heavyweight boxing titles after failing to respond to challenges], AAP, dated 15 December 2013.</ref>

===Williams vs Welliver===
On 31 January 2015, Williams prematurely returned to the ring when he fought American [[Chauncy Welliver]] at [[Allphones Arena]] in Sydney. Coincidentally, in 2012, during his stint playing rugby for Panasonic in Japan, Williams was ringside when Welliver fought [[Kyotaro Fujimoto]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=Brad Walter|title=Sonny Bill Williams and Anthony Mundine slug it out ahead of the Welliver fight|url=http://www.smh.com.au/sport/boxing/sonny-bill-williams-and-anthony-mundine-slug-it-out-ahead-of-the-welliver-fight-20150128-1308t2.html|access-date=28 January 2015|work=Sydney Morning Herald}}</ref> Included on Williams's undercards were fellow footballers [[Paul Gallen]], [[Liam Messam]] and [[Willis Meehan]]. The event marked the inaugural ''[[The Footy Show (rugby league)|Footy Show]] Fight Night''<ref>{{cite news|author1=Darren Walton|title=SBW and Messam in fight night|url=http://www.3news.co.nz/sport/sbw-and-messam-in-fight-night-2014121914#axzz3MIxELw43|access-date=19 December 2014|work=NZN}}</ref> and was broadcast, in a rare occurrence, live on free-to-air television channel [[GEM (Australian TV channel)|GEM]].<ref>{{cite news|author1=JAMES HOOPER|title=Footy superstar Sonny Bill Williams says he is fighting for respect in the boxing ring|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/boxing-mma/footy-superstar-sonny-bill-williams-says-he-is-fighting-for-respect-in-the-boxing-ring/story-fni2fnkz-1227188342607|access-date=18 January 2015|work=THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH|date=17 January 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author1=Chris Barrett|title=Sonny Bill Williams says bout against Paul Gallen may happen next year|url=http://www.theage.com.au/sport/boxing/sonny-bill-williams-says-bout-against-paul-gallen-may-happen-next-year-20141219-12al5c.html|access-date=19 December 2014|work=The Age}}</ref> Williams won the bout by unanimous points decision, with the judges scoring 80–72, 80–72 and 79–73 in his favour and Welliver praising his performance and potential.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Brad Walter|title=Sonny Bill Williams scores convincing win against Chauncy Welliver|url=http://www.smh.com.au/sport/boxing/sonny-bill-williams-scores-convincing-win-against-chauncy-welliver-20150131-132x77.html|access-date=1 February 2015|work=Sydney Morning Herald|date=1 February 2015}}</ref>

===Williams vs Falefehi===
On 26 June 2021, in his first professional bout in over six years, Williams defeated [[Waikato Falefehi]] in a unanimous points decision 57–56, at the [[Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre|Townsville Entertainment Centre]] in Queensland, Australia. Williams was almost stunned after being knocked down with an eight count in the second round of the fight.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gates |first1=Zachary |title=Sonny Bill Williams victorious in return to boxing ring, calls out AFL great Barry Hall |url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/news/boxing-2021-sonny-bill-williams-waikato-falefehi-result-barry-hall-callout-paul-gallen/2298fcb8-d27c-47ad-b83a-3b72f74fa833 |website=Nine's Wide World of Sport |date=27 June 2021 |publisher=Nine Media |access-date=16 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=McMurty |first1=Andrew |title=Sonny Bill Williams survived six-year boxing scare, calls out Barry Hall |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/boxing/sonny-bill-williams-survived-sixyear-boxing-scare-calls-out-barry-hall/news-story/2f6fe0226c25f5bcb7f7fb89b580c94f |newspaper=News.com.au |date=26 June 2021 |publisher=News Corporation Australia |access-date=16 August 2021}}</ref>

===Williams vs Hall===
On 23 March 2022, Williams defeated former professional [[Australian rules football]]er [[Barry Hall]] at Aware Super Theatre in Sydney via [[technical knockout]] (TKO) in the first round.

===Williams vs Hunt===
Williams lost to [[Mark Hunt]] in the fourth round, of an eight-round heavyweight bout on November 5, 2022, at Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney, Australia.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/boxing/boxing-2022-mark-hunt-def-sonny-bill-williams-video-highlights-result-report-what-happened-finish-news/news-story/f6d031b2d0d5e7d7aced353eda679b60|title=SBW stunned! 48yo MMA great Mark Hunt ends cross-code star's unbeaten run in boxing boilover|last=|first=|work=foxsports|access-date=8 March 2024}}</ref>

==Professional boxing record==
{{BoxingRecordSummary
|draws=
|nc=
|ko-wins=4
|ko-losses=1
|dec-wins=5
|dec-losses=
|dq-wins=
|dq-losses=
}}

{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
!{{abbr|No.|Number}}
!Result
!Record
!Opponent
!Type
!Round, time
!Date
!Location
!Notes
|-
|10
|{{no2}}Loss
|9–1
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Mark Hunt]]
|TKO
|4 (8),
|5 Nov 2022
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[International Convention Centre Sydney|International Convention Centre]], Sydney, Australia}}
|
|-
|9
|{{yes2}}Win
|9–0
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Barry Hall]]
|TKO
|1 (8), {{small|1:55}}
|23 Mar 2022
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[International Convention Centre Sydney|International Convention Centre]], Sydney, Australia}}
|
|-
|8
|{{yes2}}Win
|8–0
|style="text-align:left;"|Waikato Falefehi
|UD
|6
|26 Jun 2021
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre|Entertainment and Convention Centre]], [[Townsville]], Australia}}
|
|-
|7
|{{yes2}}Win
|7–0
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Chauncy Welliver]]
|UD
|8
|31 Jan 2015
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Sydney Super Dome|Allphones Arena]], [[Sydney]], Australia}}
|
|-
|6
|{{yes2}}Win
|6–0
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Francois Botha]]
|UD
|10
|8 Feb 2013
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, Australia}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant [[World Boxing Association|WBA]] International heavyweight title}}
|-
|5
|{{yes2}}Win
|5–0
|style="text-align:left;"|Clarence Tillman
|TKO
|1 (10), {{small|2:58}}
|8 Feb 2012
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Claudelands Arena]], [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]], New Zealand}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant [[List of New Zealand heavyweight boxing champions|NZPBA heavyweight title]]}}
|-
|4
|{{yes2}}Win
|4–0
|style="text-align:left;"|Alipate Liava'a
|UD
|6
|5 Jun 2011
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[The Trusts Arena]], [[Auckland]], New Zealand}}
|
|-
|3
|{{yes2}}Win
|3–0
|style="text-align:left;"|Scott Lewis
|{{abbr|UD|Unanimous decision}}
|6
|29 Jan 2011
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre|Convention and Exhibition Centre]], [[Gold Coast, Queensland|Gold Coast]], Australia}}
|
|-
|2
|{{yes2}}Win
|2–0
|style="text-align:left;"|Ryan Hogan
|TKO
|1 (4), {{small|2:35}}
|30 Jun 2010
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, Australia}}
|
|-
|1
|{{yes2}}Win
|1–0
|style="text-align:left;"|Gary Gurr
|{{abbr|TKO|Technical knockout}}
|2 (4), {{small|1:22}}
|27 May 2009
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Brisbane Entertainment Centre|Entertainment Centre]], [[Brisbane]], Australia}}
|
|}

==Endorsements==
On 5 May 2014, Williams became a global ambassador for sportswear manufacturer [[Adidas]]—becoming the first player in rugby league history to be signed on such a deal.<ref>[http://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/sonny-bill-williams-on-falling-back-in-love-with-league-his-private-life-and-benji-marshall-plus-behind-the-scenes-on-his-adidas-photoshoot/story-e6frf3ou-1226906527423 Sonny Bill Williams on falling back in love with league, his private life and Benji Marshall. Plus behind the scenes on his adidas photoshoot], by Phil Rothfield, The Daily Telegraph, dated 6 May 2014.</ref> He is also the face of clothing label [[Just Jeans]]<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/news/article.cfm?c_id=6&objectid=11338755 Sonny Bill knows he has swagger (+pics)], by Vaimoana Tapaleao, NZ Herald, dated 8 October 2014.</ref> and a brand ambassador for [[BMW]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Sonny Bill Williams teams up with BMW|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11735475|access-date=25 October 2016|work=NZ Herald|date=25 October 2016}}</ref> He has also had endorsement deals with other brands, including [[Powerade]]<ref>[http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10784942 Sonny Bill and the $2m package], by Gregor Paul, Herald on Sunday, 12 February 2012.</ref> and [[Rebel (company)|Rebel Sport]].<ref>[http://www.btob.co.nz/article/sonny-bill-williams-fronts-new-rebel-sport-ad-campaign Sonny Bill Williams fronts new Rebel Sport ad campaign] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813060835/http://www.btob.co.nz/article/sonny-bill-williams-fronts-new-rebel-sport-ad-campaign |date=13 August 2014 }}, Business to Business.</ref> He was ranked 41st in [[SportsPro]] magazine's 50 most marketable athletes for 2014.<ref>[http://www.sportspromedia.com/most_marketable/50_most_marketable_2014_sonny_bill_williams/ 50 Most Marketable 2014 – Sonny Bill Williams], by Michael Long, SportsPro, dated 12 May 2014.</ref><ref>[http://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/more-sports/formula-one-ace-lewis-hamilton-has-been-named-the-worlds-most-marketable-athlete/story-fnii0hmo-1226923690372 Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton has been named the world's most marketable athlete], by Connor O'Brien, Fox Sports, 20 May 2014.</ref>

In December 2015, Williams served as an ambassador for [[UNICEF]], visiting [[Lebanon]] with [[Mike McRoberts]] in an effort to raise awareness of the plight of [[Refugees of the Syrian Civil War|Syrian refugee]] children.<ref>{{cite news|author1=LAURA WALTERS|title=Sonny Bill Williams: from cocky sports star to selfless activist|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/world/middle-east/74918294/sonny-bill-williams-from-arrogant-sports-star-to-selfless-activist|access-date=13 December 2015|work=Stuff|date=9 December 2015}}</ref>

==Personal life==
Williams's younger sister, [[Niall Williams (rugby union)|Niall]], is a New Zealand former international [[Touch football (rugby league)|touch football]] captain and current [[New Zealand women's national rugby union team (sevens)|New Zealand]] rugby sevens player.<ref name="Sonny Bill Williams, the contender"/> His older brother John Arthur Williams has played rugby league in both the [[New South Wales Cup]] and [[Queensland Cup]], as well as for the Phelan Shield premiers, the New Lynn Stags, in the [[2011 New Zealand rugby league season#Club competitions|2011 Auckland Rugby League season]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20120702082134/http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-sport/5475530/More-than-one-sports-star-in-SBWs-family More than one sports star in SBW's family], stuff.co.nz, by Turei Mackey, dated 20 August 2011.</ref> Williams is the cousin of brothers [[Henry Perenara|Henry]] and [[Marcus Perenara]], who are former professional rugby league players.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.news.com.au/who-is-sonny-bill-williams/story-e6frf3pu-1111114255271| title = Who is Sonny Bill Williams?| first = Nick| last = Walshaw| work = Daily Telegraph| date = 24 August 2007| publisher = News| access-date =29 February 2012}}</ref> He is also the cousin of rugby player and Chiefs teammate [[Tim Nanai-Williams]] and [[Cardiff Blues]] player [[Nick Williams (rugby union)|Nick Williams]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Nick Williams: Cardiff Blues sign Ulster number eight|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/35163685.app|access-date=23 December 2015|work=BBC|date=23 December 2015}}</ref> Williams is also distantly related to current All Blacks player [[TJ Perenara]]. Williams is often referred to as "SBW"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/like-hes-never-played-the-game-before-fans-rip-into-10m-myth-sonny-bill-williams-in-toronto-debut/news-story/d8c7b007248f2f4858ec97d3506c58e6|title='Like he's never played the game before': Fans rip into $10M 'myth' Sonny Bill Williams in Toronto debut|date=2 February 2020}}</ref>

Williams converted to [[Islam]] in 2009, while in France playing for Toulon.<ref name="theguardian.com"/> He is the first Muslim to play for the All Blacks<ref name="NZH - 13Feb2011 - SBW embraces Islam">{{cite news|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10705928|title=Sonny Bill Williams embraces Islam|last=Meng-Yee|first=Carolyne|date=13 February 2011| work = NZ Herald| publisher= APN Holdings| access-date =2 June 2011}}</ref> and has spoken extensively about his faith.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/403405/sbw-on-islam-and-rugby|title = SBW on Islam and rugby|website = [[Radio New Zealand]]|date = 16 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-league/50406738|title = 'I chased girls and drank alcohol - and it only gave me emptiness'|work = BBC Sport}}</ref> In 2018, he performed an [[Umrah]] pilgrimage to Mecca, and travelled to Medina as well.<ref name="One Path - 17Jan2018 - Sonny Bill Williams Makes Umrah">{{cite news|url=https://onepathnetwork.com/sonny-bill-williams-makes-umrah/|title=Sonny Bill Williams Makes Umrah|date=17 January 2018| work = OnePath| publisher= OnePath Network| access-date =18 February 2018}}</ref> He is a dual citizen of New Zealand and [[Samoa]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Sonny Bill in Samoa Rugby League's wish list|url=http://www.talamua.com/sonny-bill-in-samoa-rugby-leagues-wish-list/|work=talamua.com|publisher=Alan Ah Mu|access-date=16 April 2017}}</ref> In 2019, he made a "tearful message of condolence" for the victims of the [[Christchurch mosque shootings]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/sport/2019/03/christchurch-shooting-sonny-bill-williams-shares-tearful-message.html|title=Christchurch shooting: All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams shares tearful message|newspaper=[[Newshub]] |via=www.newshub.co.nz}}</ref> and denounced [[Xinjiang re-education camps|the treatment of the Uyghurs in China]]: "It's a sad time when we choose economic benefits over humanity."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/dec/23/sonny-bill-williams-follows-mesut-ozil-in-support-of-uighur-ethnic-group|title=Sonny Bill Williams follows Mesut Özil in support of Uighur ethnic group|work=The Guardian|date=23 December 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Norquay |first1=Kevin |title=China expert Anne-Marie Brady thanks Sonny Bill Williams for his courage |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/118428556/political-scientist-professor-annemarie-brady-thanks-sbw-for-his-china-courage |access-date=24 December 2019 |work=[[Stuff.co.nz]] |date=24 December 2019}}</ref> Williams is married to Alana Raffie, a South African former model, and has five children.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/football-superstar-sonny-bill-williams-got-married-despite-not-being-in-love/news-story/ccb9fc7afe9b41a86ec4ddf7221b6914?amp|title = Sonny Bill Williams wasn't in love with wife|newspaper = News.com.au|date = 9 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/97607509/sonny-bill-williams-says-south-africa-is-my-second-home|title=Stuff|website=www.stuff.co.nz}}</ref>

==Statistics==

===NRL===
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! Season 
!Team!! Matches !! Tries !! Points
|-
| [[National Rugby League season 2004|2004]]
| rowspan="5" |{{Leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs]]|| 15|| 4|| 16
|-
| [[National Rugby League season 2005|2005]]|| 5|| 1|| 4
|-
| [[National Rugby League season 2006|2006]]|| 21|| 8|| 32
|-
| [[National Rugby League season 2007|2007]]|| 21|| 14|| 56
|-
| [[National Rugby League season 2008|2008]]|| 11|| 4|| 16
|-
| [[2013 NRL season|2013]]
| rowspan="3" |{{Leagueicon|Sydney|16}} [[Sydney Roosters]]|| 24|| 8|| 32
|-
| [[2014 NRL season|2014]]|| 21|| 3|| 12
|-
|2020
|5
|
|
|-
! Total
! || 123|| 42|| 168
|}

===All Blacks===
{| class="wikitable sortable"  style="text-align:center; line-height:90%; font-size:95%; width:100%;"
|-
!  style="width:17%; font-size:90%;"|Against
! abbr="Played" style="width:25px; font-size:90%;"|Pld
! abbr="Won" style="width:20px; font-size:90%;"|W
! abbr="Drawn" style="width:20px; font-size:90%;"|D
! abbr="Lost" style="width:20px; font-size:90%;"|L
! abbr="Tries" style="width:30px; font-size:90%;"|Tri
! abbr="Conversions" style="width:30px; font-size:90%;"|Con
! abbr="Penalties" style="width:30px; font-size:90%;"|Pen
! abbr="Penalties" style="width:30px; font-size:90%;"|DG
! abbr="Points" style="width:28px; font-size:90%;"|Pts
! abbr="Won" style="width:28px; font-size:90%;"|%Won
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|ARG}} || 6 || 6 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:6/6*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|AUS}} || 10 || 8 || 0 || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 10 || {{#expr:8/10*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| [[British and Irish Lions]] || 2 || 1 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 5 || {{#expr:1/2*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|CAN}} || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 5 || {{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|ENG}} || 3 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:3/3*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|FRA}} || 5 || 5 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 5 || {{#expr:5/5*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|GEO}} || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|IRE}} || 4 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 10 || {{#expr:4/4*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|NAM}} || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|JPN}} || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 10 || {{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|SAM}} || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 5 || {{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|SCO}} || 3 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:3/3*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|RSA}} || 7 || 5 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:5/7*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|TON}} || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 10 || {{#expr:2/2*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|USA}} || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 15 || {{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"| {{ru|WAL}} || 3 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:3/3*100 round 2}}
|- class="sortbottom"
! Total|| 53|| 48|| 1|| 4|| 13|| 0|| 0|| 0|| 75|| {{#expr:48/53*100 round 2}}
|}
<small>Pld = Games Played, W = Games Won, D = Games Drawn, L = Games Lost, Tri = Tries Scored, Con = Conversions, Pen = Penalties, DG = Drop Goals, Pts = Points Scored</small>
*Updated as of 15 September 2019

==Honours==

===Individual===
* 2004: [[RLIF Awards#International Newcomer of the Year|International Newcomer of the Year]]
* 2004: World XIII<ref name="BBC_feet"/>
* 2004: [[Samoan Sports Association]] Junior Sportsman of the Year<ref>[http://www.samoansports.co.nz/# Samoan Sports Association] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111216202554/http://www.samoansports.co.nz/ |date=16 December 2011 }}</ref>
* 2005: [[Nickelodeon Australian Kids' Choice Awards 2005#Fave Rising Star|Nickelodeon Australian Kids' Choice Awards "Fave Rising Star"]]
* 2012: [[New Zealand Professional Boxing Association]] ([[NZPBA]]) Heavyweight Champion
* 2012: Chiefs players' player award
* 2013: [[World Boxing Association|WBA]] International Heavyweight Champion
* 2013: [[Jack Gibson (rugby league)|Jack Gibson]] Medalist – Sydney Roosters' Player of the Year
* 2013: No.9 in [[AskMen]]'s ''Top 49 Most Influential Men'' (2013 edition)<ref>[http://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/auckland/news/nbint/1307848055-sonny-bill-makes--most-influential-men--list Sonny Bill makes 'Most Influential Men' list], by ARN, dated 6 November 2013.</ref><ref>[http://au.askmen.com/specials/2013_top_49/9-sonny-bill-williams.html Top 49 Men: 2013 edition], askmen.com.</ref>
* 2013: RLIF International Second-rower of the Year
* 2013: [[RLIF Awards#International Player of the Year|RLIF International Player of the Year]]
* 2015: [[Panathlon International]] Fair Play Award<ref>{{cite news|author1=Heath Moore|title=Sonny Bill Williams awarded top sporting prize|url=https://au.sports.yahoo.com/rugby/a/31649037/sonny-bill-williams-awarded-top-sporting-prize/|access-date=20 May 2016|work=Yahoo New Zealand|date=19 May 2016}}</ref>

===Team===
* [[2004 NRL season|2004]]: [[National Rugby League|NRL]] Premiership with the [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs|Bulldogs]]
* 2010: [[Ranfurly Shield]] winner with [[Canterbury Rugby Football Union|Canterbury]]
* [[2010 ITM Cup|2010]]: [[ITM Cup]] winner with Canterbury
* 2011: [[Bledisloe Cup]] winner with [[New Zealand national rugby union team|New Zealand]]
* [[2011 Rugby World Cup|2011]]: [[Rugby World Cup]] winner with New Zealand
* [[2012 Super Rugby season|2012]]: [[Super Rugby]] winner with the [[Chiefs (rugby union)|Chiefs]]
* 2012: [[Bledisloe Cup]] winner with New Zealand
* [[2013 NRL season|2013]]: [[Minor Premiership]] with the [[Sydney Roosters]]
* 2013: [[National Rugby League|NRL Premiership]] with the [[Sydney Roosters]]
* [[2014 World Club Challenge|2014]]: [[World Club Challenge]] winner with the [[Sydney Roosters]]
* [[2014 NRL season|2014]]: [[Minor Premiership]] with the [[Sydney Roosters]]
* 2015: [[Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs|Bulldogs]] Team of the Decade (2005–2014) – as a back-rower<ref>{{cite news|author1=Adrian Proszenko|title=Sonny Bill Williams named in Canterbury Bulldogs team of the decade|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/sonny-bill-williams-named-in-canterbury-bulldogs-team-of-the-decade-20150801-gipebj.html|access-date=2 August 2015|work=Sydney Morning Herald|date=1 August 2015}}</ref>
*[[2015 Rugby World Cup|2015]]: [[Rugby World Cup]] winner with New Zealand
*[[2015–16 World Rugby Sevens Series|2016]]: [[2016 Wellington Sevens|Wellington Sevens]] Champion with [[New Zealand national rugby sevens team|New Zealand]]
*2016: [[2016 Sydney Sevens|Sydney Sevens]] Champion with New Zealand
*2017: Won [[British & Irish Lions]] tour game with the Blues
*2017: Drawn [[British & Irish Lions]] Test series with New Zealand
*2017: Won [[Bledisloe Cup]] and [[the Rugby Championship]] with New Zealand
*2017: Won [[Dave Gallaher Trophy]] with New Zealand
*2019: Won [[Freedom Cup]] with New Zealand
*2019: Won [[Bledisloe Cup]] with New Zealand
*2019: Third-place with New Zealand in the [[2019 Rugby World Cup|Rugby World Cup]]

==See also==
{{Portal|New Zealand|Sports|Martial arts}}
* [[List of players who have converted from one football code to another]]
* [[Sonny Wool]]
{{clear}}

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==Further reading==
*{{Cite book
| last = Matheson
| first = John
| title = Sonny Bill Williams: The Story of Rugby's New Superstar
| publisher = [[HarperCollins]] Publishers New Zealand
| year = 2011
| page = 144
| url = http://naturebeebookclub.wordpress.com/2011/08/25/sonny-bill-williams-the-story-of-rugbys-new-superstar-matheson-john/
| isbn = 9781869508623}}
*{{Cite book
| last = Riley
| first = David
| title = Off Loading with Sonny Bill Williams
| publisher = [[Smashwords]]
| year = 2013
| page = 70
| url = http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/371003
| isbn = 9781311082213}}
*{{Cite book
 |last        = Kent
 |first       = Paul
 |author-link  = Paul Kent (journalist)
 |title       = Sonny Ball – The Legend of Sonny Bill Williams
 |publisher   = [[Macmillan Publishers|Macmillan Australia]]
 |year        = 2015
 |page        = 368
 |url         = http://www.panmacmillan.com.au/display_title.asp?ISBN=9781743534212&Author=Kent,%20Paul
 |isbn        = 9781743539200
 |url-status     = dead
 |archive-url  = https://web.archive.org/web/20150712121950/http://www.panmacmillan.com.au/display_title.asp?ISBN=9781743534212&Author=Kent,%20Paul
 |archive-date = 12 July 2015
 |df          = dmy-all
}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{Wikiquote|Sonny Bill Williams}}
* {{All Blacks|id=1108|name=Sonny Bill Williams}}
* {{NZOC}}
* {{Olympics.com profile|sonny-bill-williams}}
* {{Olympedia}}
* {{World Rugby Sevens Series player}}
* {{ESPNscrum}}
* {{ItsRugby}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120204021707/http://stats.rleague.com/rl/scorers/players/S/Sonny_Bill_Williams.html Sonny Bill Williams's NRL playing statistics]
* [http://www.abc.net.au/unleashed/stories/s2317477.htm "Sonny's runner" – essay on Williams's 2008 mid-season move, by Sean Fagan]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110508112256/http://www.bigpondsport.com/leagues-most-hated-player/tabid/91/newsid/70796/default.aspx "League's most hated player?" by Daniel Ramus]
* {{BoxRec}}

{{Bulldogs squad 2004 NRL premiership}}
{{2013 Sydney Roosters Premiership}}
{{Sydney Roosters - 2014 World Club Challenge winners}}
{{New Zealand 2004 Rugby League Tri Nations squad}}
{{New Zealand 2013 Rugby League World Cup squad}}
{{Navboxes
|title= Rugby union squads
|list1=
{{New Zealand Squad 2011 Rugby World Cup}}
{{New Zealand Squad 2015 Rugby World Cup}}
{{New Zealand Squad 2019 Rugby World Cup}}
{{New Zealand men's 2016 Olympic sevens squad}}
{{2016 New Zealand Olympic team}}
}}
{{RLIF International Player of the Year Award}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Williams, Sonny Bill}}
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