Malcolm Marx Crowned SA & World Rugby Player of the Year – 2025 Awards

The 2025 South African Rugby Awards celebrated a year of unprecedented success for the Springboks and its players, culminating in a night of recognition for both established stars and emerging talent. Malcolm Marx, already recognized globally, cemented his status as South Africa’s premier player, although Rassie Erasmus continued to be lauded for his transformative impact on the national program.

Marx claimed the SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year award, adding to his recent World Rugby Men’s Player of the Year honor. This marks the second time the Springboks hooker has received the national accolade, having first earned the distinction in 2017. His consistent performance and leadership were key factors in the Springboks’ dominant 2025 season, which saw them successfully defend the Rugby Championship title and win 11 of their 13 Tests.

Nadine Roos also enjoyed a double celebration, being named SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year for the second consecutive season. Her contributions were pivotal as the Springbok Women reached the Rugby World Cup playoffs for the first time, signaling a significant step forward for the women’s game in South Africa.

The impact of Rassie Erasmus extended beyond the playing field, as he was named Coach of the Year. This recognition acknowledges his strategic brilliance and man-management skills, which have been credited with the Springboks’ remarkable turnaround since he took the reins in 2018. The team’s success in 2025, including a dominant record and Rugby Championship defense, underscored his continued effectiveness.

The awards evening wasn’t solely about celebrating the senior team’s achievements. Ethan Hooker was named SA Rugby Men’s Young Player of the Year, while Byrhandré Dolf received the SA Rugby Young Women’s Player of the Year award. These accolades highlight the depth of talent emerging within South African rugby and suggest a bright future for the sport.

The competition for the Men’s Player of the Year award was fierce, with Pieter-Steph du Toit, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ox Nche, and Jasper Wiese all vying for the top honor. Marx’s victory denied Du Toit the opportunity to break Bryan Habana’s record as a three-time winner, and prevented Feinberg-Mngomezulu from becoming only the third player to win both the men’s and young player awards in the same year. Feinberg-Mngomezulu did, however, receive recognition as the SA URC Player of the Year.

Beyond the individual awards, the Springboks were rightfully recognized as Team of the Year, a testament to their collective effort and consistent performance throughout 2025. The Junior Springboks and Springbok Sevens teams were also acknowledged as finalists, demonstrating the widespread success across all levels of South African rugby.

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander emphasized the significance of the year, stating that 2025 would be “etched in our memories for decades to come.” He praised Erasmus, captain Siya Kolisi, and the entire Springboks squad for their contributions, while also highlighting the achievements of the Junior Springboks, who won the U20 World Championship, and the Springbok Sevens team, who triumphed in the HSBC SVNS World Championship.

The awards also included special recognition for individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport. Kolisi received the Spirit of ’95 Award for his leadership and commitment to inclusivity, mirroring the values championed by Nelson Mandela. Erasmus was presented with the Springbok Legacy Award, recognizing his extraordinary impact on the game and his dedication to excellence. Long-serving members of the Springbok management team – Charles Wessels, Mzwandile Stick, and Lindsay Weyer – were also honored for reaching significant milestones in their careers.

Further domestic awards were presented to Donavan Don (Carling Currie Cup Premier Division Player of the Year), Andrew Kota (Carling Currie Cup First Division Player of the Year), and Patience Mokone (Provincial Women’s Player of the Year), acknowledging excellence at the provincial level. Aimee Barrett-Theron was also recognized as the OUTsurance Referee of the Year.

The 2025 SA Rugby Awards served not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a source of optimism for the future. With a strong foundation of talent, dedicated leadership, and a thriving domestic scene, South African rugby appears well-positioned to continue its success in the years to come. The addition of new awards recognizing talent in the women’s sevens and young women’s game further demonstrates a commitment to growing the sport at all levels.