Steve Waugh

Steve Waugh AO is one of Australia’s most celebrated sporting figures and the nation’s most successful Test cricket captain. A defining leader in world cricket, Steve guided the Australian Test team to an era of dominance, earning global recognition when his side was named the Best Team in the World at the 2002 Laureus Sports Awards. His individual brilliance was acknowledged with the Allan Border Medal in 2001.

Honoured with the Order of Australia in 2003 for his contribution to cricket and charitable endeavours, Steve has built a legacy that extends well beyond the sporting arena. He retired from Test cricket in 2004 after an extraordinary 18-year career, departing as Australia’s highest Test run-scorer at the time and becoming a revered figure in the game’s history. In 2009, he was inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, and the prestigious Sheffield Shield Player of the Year medal now bears his name.

Steve’s journey began early — debuting for New South Wales at just 17 and making his Test debut on the 1985 tour of South Africa. His tenure as captain of both the Australian Test (1999–2004) and One Day International teams (1997–2002) remains widely admired. Known for his composure, mental toughness and ability to instil unwavering belief in others, Steve led with a philosophy centred on empowerment and accountability: “I try to instill faith in the players and give them self-belief and really empower them to be the best they can be.”

Beyond cricket, Steve has dedicated much of his life to humanitarian work. A transformative visit to India in 1986 inspired his enduring connection with Udayan Home in Barrackpore, where he continues to support children impacted by leprosy with healthcare, education and opportunity. His charitable commitment expanded in 2007 with the launch of The Steve Waugh Foundation, supporting children and young people facing rare diseases. He also proudly serves as a patron of Camp Quality and the Conductive Education Unit of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance.

In recognition of both his sporting achievements and his tireless charity work, Steve was named Australian of the Year in 2004, and Australian Father of the Year in 2005.

Today, Steve Waugh AO is a highly sought-after public speaker. With a compelling blend of honesty, humility and fierce determination, he captivates audiences as he shares lessons from elite sport, leadership under pressure, personal values and global philanthropic work. Whether speaking to corporate groups, sporting organisations or community audiences, Steve brings profound insight, authenticity and inspiration.