Anton Segner makes All Blacks history in 100th first-class rugby match
Anton Segner celebrated one of the most memorable days of his rugby career by making history in his 100th first-class match, becoming the first German-born player to represent the All Blacks.
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND — In a moment that blended raw emotion with rugby excellence, Anton Segner reached a personal milestone that also etched his name into All Blacks lore. The German-born loose forward celebrated his 100th first-class appearance in style, turning out for the All Blacks in a high-stakes Test that showcased both his remarkable journey and the depth of New Zealand rugby talent.
Segner, who first arrived in New Zealand as a teenager on a school exchange, has defied the odds to become a cornerstone of the national side. Born in Frankfurt in 2001, he grew up in a country where football reigns supreme and rugby barely registers on the sporting radar. Yet a six-month scholarship at Nelson College in 2017 changed everything. What started as an adventure quickly turned into a calling. Segner fell in love with the game, captained school teams, and rose through the ranks with Tasman and later the Blues. His selection for the All Blacks earlier this year made him the first German-born player to wear the silver fernÔÇöa distant dream realized through grit, opportunity, and undeniable talent.
Friday nightÔÇÖs match at Eden Park against a tough international opponent provided the perfect stage for SegnerÔÇÖs century. From the opening kickoff, the 25-year-old flanker was everywhereÔÇöwinning breakdowns, carrying strongly, and linking play with the composure of a veteran far beyond his caps. His performance helped the All Blacks secure a hard-fought victory, but the real story was the man himself. Teammates formed a guard of honor as he left the field, a touching tribute to a player who has earned respect across the board.
Anton Segner of New Zealand (C) sings the national anthem with Wallace Sititi (L) and Sam Darry (R) during the rugby union Nations Championship match between the New Zealand All Blacks and Italy in HNRY Stadium in Wellington on July 11, 2026. (Photo by Grant Down / AFP via Getty Images)
In the sheds afterward, Segner reflected on the significance with characteristic humility. ÔÇ£ItÔÇÖs been an incredible ride from those early days in Germany to pulling on the All Blacks jersey for my 100th game,ÔÇØ said Segner. ÔÇ£I never take any of this for granted. New Zealand has given me everything, and I just want to keep repaying that faith every time I step on the field.ÔÇØ His words, delivered in a soft accent that still carries faint traces of his European roots, resonated deeply with those who have followed his ascent.
SegnerÔÇÖs path has not been straightforward. After impressing at Nelson College, he made his mark with the Tasman Mako in the NPC, captaining age-grade sides and earning a Super Rugby contract with the Blues in 2022. At 192 cm and 108 kg, he brings a powerful presence to the back row, blending physicality with skill and work rate that coaches rave about. His transition from the Crusaders under-20s to senior rugby was swift, and consistent performances for Auckland and the Blues in recent seasons forced selectors to take notice.
What makes SegnerÔÇÖs story so compelling is its uniqueness in All Blacks history. New Zealand rugby has welcomed players from diverse backgrounds, but few have traveled quite this farÔÇöliterally and figuratively. From the youth ranks of SC 1880 Frankfurt to captaining New Zealand Schools and now starring for the national team, his trajectory highlights the global reach of the game and New ZealandÔÇÖs ability to nurture talent from anywhere.
Teammates speak glowingly of his character. Blues and All Blacks captain Sam Cane, who has mentored many young forwards, described Segner as ÔÇ£the ultimate professional ÔÇö dedicated, humble, and always putting the team first.ÔÇØ That mindset was evident in the milestone game, where Segner didnÔÇÖt chase personal glory but focused on the collective effort. His lineout wins and defensive reads were crucial in shutting down opposition attacks, while his ball-carrying provided the go-forward the All Blacks thrive on.
Off the field, Segner remains grounded. He credits his family back in Germany for their unwavering support, even as they watch matches from thousands of kilometers away. Friends from his Nelson days joke about the skinny kid who barely knew the rules now dominating professional rugby. Those early strugglesÔÇöadapting to a new culture, learning the nuances of New Zealand rugby, and battling for every opportunityÔÇöhave shaped him into a resilient competitor.
As the 2026 season progresses, SegnerÔÇÖs 100th match serves as both a celebration and motivation. The All Blacks are rebuilding under new coaching influences, and players like him represent the future. With the Rugby Championship and potential British & Irish Lions tours on the horizon, his experience will be invaluable. For a young man who once dreamed of simply playing the game at a decent level, reaching this landmark in a black jersey is surreal.
Rugby fans across New Zealand and beyond have embraced SegnerÔÇÖs story. Social media lit up with congratulations, many highlighting the inclusivity of the sport. In a country that holds the All Blacks close to its national identity, moments like these reinforce why the team inspires generations. Segner himself hopes his journey encourages other young players, no matter their background, to chase their own ambitions.