The Lions second row received the prize at the Hibernia College IRUPA awards in Dublin last night.
O’Connell has been linked with Toulon in recent weeks but speaking at last night's awards said he's not sure where his future lies or whether or not he'll retire soon.
Connacht’s Robbie Henshaw was voted Nevin Spence young player of the year.
Leinster’s Daragh Fanning received the unsung hero award while Connacht’s Michael Swift received the medal for excellence.
Ex-Munster, Ireland and Lions openside David Wallace was inducted into the hall of fame.
