Williams tweeted a selfie to say thanks to World Rugby after he received the award on Monday (NZT) at the organisation's glitzy awards night in London where team-mate Dan Carter was named world player of the year.

It came a day after Williams gave his medal to young fan Charlie Line who was tackled by a security guard as he tried to get onto the Twickenham pitch while the All Blacks were doing a lap of honour following their 34-17 win over the Wallabies in the final.

Earlier at the awards evening, All Blacks captain Richie McCaw had also received a standing ovation when he entered the glittering ceremony carrying the golden Webb Ellis Cup.

The All Blacks were up for team of the year at the World Rugby awards, while Dan Carter was a nominee for player of the year and Steve Hansen coach of the year. Julian Savea was a double finalist for try of the year and rookie wing Nehe Milner-Skudder a finalist for newcomer of the year.