In a historic moment for rugby, South Africa’s Malcolm Marx has been crowned the men’s 15s Player of the Year at the 2025 World Rugby Awards. The 31-year-old hooker, a pivotal figure in the Springboks’ success this year, becomes the first player in his position to win the prestigious award since Ireland’s Keith Wood in 2001. Marx has been instrumental in South Africa’s dominant performance, starting in 11 of the team’s 13 Tests and scoring five tries. His contributions were crucial as the Springboks defended their Rugby Championship title and suffered only two losses throughout the year. Competing against fellow nominees Pieter-Steph du Toit, Ox Nche, and France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Marx’s recognition underscores his exceptional skill and leadership. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s rising star Fabian Holland, aged 23, was named the men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year. Holland, who debuted in July, has quickly made his mark with 12 appearances, including a standout performance in New Zealand’s 52-26 victory over Wales. Other notable winners include Chile’s Santiago Pedrero, who claimed the Try of the Year for his spectacular score against Samoa, and Canada’s Sophie de Goede, who was named Women’s Player of the Year in September. England’s World Cup-winning coach John Mitchell also received accolades as Coach of the Year, capping off a year of remarkable achievements in rugby.