Ox Nche And South African Stars Lead 2025 World Rugby Player Of The Year Nominees

South Africa’s powerhouse prop, Ox Nche, has been named among the nominees for the prestigious 2025 World Rugby Player of the Year award, reflecting a standout season on the international stage.

World Rugby has revealed its shortlist for the men’s awards, recognising players who have shaped the game with their skill, determination, and influence over the past year.

The awards come after the conclusion of the women’s categories at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in September.

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Three major men’s honours will be decided later this month: the International Rugby Players Association Try of the Year, World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year, and World Rugby Player of the Year.

A panel of former international stars, including Victor Matfield, Ugo Monye, Kieran Read, Sergio Parisse, and Fiona Coghlan, curated the shortlist. Their selections highlight not only on-field excellence but also the inspirational impact each nominee has had throughout 2025.

Top Rugby Tries of 2025 – Fans Choose the Best Moments

Fans will once again have the power to select the season’s most spectacular try. Voting is open via the World Rugby and RugbyPass Instagram accounts until Thursday, 20 November. Nominees for the International Rugby Players Association Men’s 15s Try of the Year include:

Santiago Cordero (Argentina v British and Irish Lions – June)

Santiago Pedrero (Chile v Samoa, RWC 2027 qualifier – October)

Lekima Tagitagivalu (Fiji v Australia – July)

Tupou Vaa’i (New Zealand v France – July)

This category celebrates the creativity, skill, and sheer excitement that define the modern game, giving fans a chance to honour the season’s most memorable moments.

Rising Stars and World-Class Players Battle for 2025 Honours

The Breakthrough Player of the Year award shines a spotlight on emerging international talents making waves in 2025. Nominees include:

Fabian Holland (New Zealand)

Ethan Hooker (South Africa)

Henry Pollock (England)

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (Australia)

Meanwhile, the coveted Player of the Year prize recognises those delivering consistently elite performances while inspiring fans worldwide. South African stars Ox Nche, Pieter-Steph du Toit, and Malcolm Marx are up against France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey for this top accolade.

World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson praised the nominees, saying, “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. I look forward to announcing the winners and unveiling the Dream Team of the Year later this month as we bring 2025 to a memorable close.”

Winners will be revealed across World Rugby’s digital platforms on Saturday, 22 November, with the Dream Team of the Year announced on Tuesday, 25 November.

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