James Tedesco wins fourth Players' Champion award

The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) has announced James Tedesco as the recipient of the Players' Champion award for 2025, an honor determined by votes from NRL players.

Tedesco has previously won the Players' Champion in 2017, 2019, and 2022, making him one of the elite few to achieve this feat. He now joins Johnathan Thurston as a four-time winner of this prestigious player-voted award in rugby league.

In the 2025 NRL season, Tedesco showcased an outstanding performance. As a dynamic and influential fullback, he was integral to the Sydney Roosters throughout the season, leading the competition with the highest number of tackle breaks (164), runs (521), and run metres (4,862).

His consistency throughout the season was remarkable, as he frequently demonstrated his exceptional skills and leadership abilities in guiding his team.

Clint Newton OAM, CEO of the RLPA, commended Tedesco on his achievement of winning the fourth Players' Champion award.