Malcolm Marx Crowned World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year
With three South Africans nominated, the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year award was always likely to stay in green and gold — and Malcolm Marx ultimately claimed it.
Dublin, Ireland (24 November 2025) – Expectations were high that a Springbok would win the award in 2025. Three of the four nominees were South Africans, making the outcome feel almost inevitable. Marx seized the honour, joining legends such as Schalk Burger, Bryan Habana, and Pieter-Steph du Toit.
His rise to the top came seven years after his first nomination. It marked a standout season for the Springbok hooker. Marx started 11 tests in 2025 and scored four tries in the Rugby Championship alone. One of his biggest moments was a second-half brace at Twickenham against Argentina. It helped the Springboks secure consecutive Rugby Championship titles for the first time.
He also impressed on the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour, where South Africa overpowered Ireland 24–13 at the Aviva Stadium.
Power and Discipline Define a Dominant Season
Marx’s power carried the Springboks through a bruising clash in Dublin. South Africa controlled the physical battles. Ireland struggled with discipline under pressure, conceding multiple sin bins and even a 20-minute red card.
Overall, his performances reinforced his reputation as one of the world’s most complete forwards.
Joining Malcolm Marx on the shortlist were Pieter-Steph du Toit and Ox Nché. France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey rounded out the nominations, but the field was overwhelmingly South African.
A Celebration of Global Talent
The World Rugby Awards also honoured standout players from across the globe. New Zealand’s Fabian Holland and Chile’s Santiago Pedrero were among the men’s category winners. Women’s 15s awards had been presented earlier in the year following the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.
For Malcolm Marx, the night capped a season defined by consistency, power, and Springboks dominance. As a result, he finished the year at the summit of world rugby.
