Sonny Bill labels 'fearless' France favourites: 'They don't have the fear factor of the All Blacks'

When Sonny Bill Williams retired from rugby union after the 2019 World Cup, he brought an end to one of the most glittering careers in the sport.

On top of a successful time in rugby league, Williams won countless Bledisloe Cups as well as the Webb Ellis trophy in 2011 and four years later.

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On Friday, Williams' New Zealand play hosts France in the World Cup's opening game less than two months after Les Bleus' under-20s side won a third straight junior title.

"When I see the French, the chickens are coming home to roost," former centre Williams told AFP.

"The last few under-20 World Cups they've won and the young fearless players that are coming through, France represent that.

"They don't have the fear factor of the All Blacks, that's why they're scary, that's why for me they're one of the favourites," he said, adding Ireland to the list of title contenders.

The 38-year-old was part of an All Blacks generation to lift the Webb Ellis trophy twice, alongside the likes of Richie McCaw, Dan Carter and Ma'a Nonu.

"I was lucky, I was very fortunate to be in a great side," Williams, who spent two years of his union career with French club Toulon, said.

"I always loved the fact that I was in a group, in the sheds and I understood there were some great players in the team and all I had to do was my job.

"Some good memories, but everyone has their time," he added.

'Khabib'

The build-up to the tournament has been overshadowed by a group of former internationals pursuing legal action against World Rugby, England's Rugby Football Union and the Welsh Rugby Union for the brain injuries they suffered during their careers.

Williams, who has also had a