Get ready, rugby fans! The World Rugby Awards 2025 men's nominees have been announced, and the stage is set for a celebration of the sport's finest moments and athletes. This year's awards promise to be a thrilling showcase of talent and skill.
The nominations highlight the exceptional performances that have defined the rugby world over the past year. The awards, which were announced on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, span three major categories: International Rugby Player Try of the Year, World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year, and Player of the Year.
The women's categories were already awarded at the conclusion of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in September.
But here's where it gets exciting: The winners in the men's categories will be revealed on Saturday, November 22, across World Rugby's digital platforms. And that's not all! The highly anticipated World Rugby Dream Team of the Year will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 25, highlighting the standout performers from across the rugby world.
The nominees were chosen by the World Rugby Awards panel, a group of rugby legends including Jacques Burger, Fiona Coghlan, Victor Matfield, Drew Mitchell, Ugo Monye, Sergio Parisse, Kieran Read, and Blaine Scully. This ensures that the awards are a true reflection of excellence and inspiration within the sport.
Let's dive into the categories and nominees:
International Rugby Players Men's 15s Try of the Year
Fans worldwide will play a crucial role in selecting the most spectacular try of the season. The winner will be determined by a fan vote on World Rugby and RugbyPass Instagram channels (voting closes on Thursday, November 20).
- Santiago Cordero (Argentina, v British and Irish Lions – June)
- Santiago Pedrero (Chile, v Samoa, South America/Pacific Play-off, RWC 2027 qualifier – October)
- Lekima Tagitagivalu (Fiji, v Australia, men's international – July)
- Tupou Vaa'i (New Zealand, v France, men's international – July)
World Rugby Men's 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year
This award recognizes emerging talents who have made a significant impact on the international stage in 2025.
- Fabian Holland (New Zealand)
- Ethan Hooker (South Africa)
- Henry Pollock (England)
- Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (Australia)
World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year
This prestigious award celebrates the individual who has consistently delivered world-class performances and inspired fans globally.
- Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France)
- Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa)
- Malcolm Marx (South Africa)
- Ox Nche (South Africa)
World Rugby Chair, Brett Robinson, shared his enthusiasm: “The World Rugby Awards represent a celebration of the very best our sport has to offer. From breathtaking tries to breakthrough talents and inspirational leaders, this year’s nominees have shone brightly on the global stage in 2025, truly embodying the values and spirit of rugby. On behalf of World Rugby, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each nominee for their remarkable contributions and achievements over the past year.
“Following the recognition of our women’s stars in September, I now look forward with great anticipation to announcing the winners and unveiling the Dream Team of the Year later this month, as we bring the year to a fitting and memorable close.”
And this is the part most people miss... The World Rugby Awards women's winners were unveiled at the end of Women's Rugby World Cup 2025.
What do you think? Which try was the most impressive? Who deserves to be the Breakthrough Player of the Year? And who will take home the coveted Player of the Year award? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
