According to rahyafte (the missionaries and converts website):Sonny Bill Williams, whose full name is Sonny William Williams, is a prominent New Zealand rugby and rugby league player known not only for his athletic prowess but also for his conversion to Islam and his open and unapologetic practice of the faith.
Early Life and Sporting Career:
Born on August 3, 1985, in Auckland, New Zealand, Sonny Bill Williams displayed remarkable athletic talent from a young age. He began his sports career as a teenager, initially as a boxer before transitioning to rugby league. In 2004, at the age of 18, he made his professional rugby league debut for the Canterbury Bulldogs in the National Rugby League (NRL). His physicality, agility, and versatility on the field quickly made him a rising star in the sport.
Conversion to Islam:
Sonny Bill Williams’ conversion to Islam took place in 2008 while he was playing for the Bulldogs. The exact circumstances surrounding his conversion are not widely publicized, but he has spoken openly about how the faith resonated with him on a spiritual level. His conversion was a deeply personal decision, and he adopted the name “Sonny Bill” after embracing Islam.
Rugby Union and Return to Rugby League:
After a successful stint in rugby league, Sonny Bill Williams switched to rugby union in 2010, joining the Canterbury Crusaders in New Zealand’s Super Rugby competition. His transition to rugby union was remarkable, and he quickly established himself as a world-class player in both codes of the sport.
In 2012, Williams returned to rugby league and signed with the Sydney Roosters in the NRL. During his second rugby league stint, he continued to excel and played a crucial role in the Roosters’ success, including their NRL premiership win in 2013.
International Rugby Success:
In addition to his club success, Sonny Bill Williams has also achieved significant success at the international level. He represented the New Zealand national rugby union team, the All Blacks, and was a key figure in their victories at the Rugby World Cup in 2011 and 2015, becoming one of the few athletes to win Rugby World Cups in both rugby union and rugby league.
Public Expression of Faith:
Throughout his career, Sonny Bill Williams has been open about his faith and his journey as a Muslim. He has been photographed praying on the field before and after matches, and he’s known for his humility and commitment to his religious beliefs.
Off the Field:
Off the field, Williams has been involved in various charitable endeavors and has used his platform to raise awareness about social issues. He has also been a vocal advocate for Islam, dispelling misconceptions and fostering understanding about the faith.
Sonny Bill Williams’ story is a testament to his athletic talent and his personal journey of faith. His conversion to Islam and his commitment to practicing his religion openly have made him a role model for many, both within the sporting world and the global Muslim community.
