Bok star Malcolm Marx crowned World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year

Marx was named the winner moments after claiming Man-of-the-Match honours in the Boksâ™ 24-13 victory over Ireland in Dublin, a win that keeps them on course for a clean sweep of November tour victories after also defending their Rugby Championship crown in the south.

The 31-year-old scooped the honour for the first time after being nominated alongside 2019 and 2024 World Rugby Player of the Year Pieter-Steph du Toit and prop Ox Nche.

It marks a historic moment for South African rugby, with two Boks winning the award back-to-back for the first time.

Marx has been a force at the breakdown and a consistent attacking threat, combining physicality with exceptional skill. His precise lineout throws, dynamic ball-carrying, and relentless work around the field have made him one of the most complete front-rowers in the game.

The hooker, who was also nominated in 2018 and named SA Rugby Menâ™s Player of the Year in 2017, joins an exclusive list of South Africans to win the award, alongside Du Toit, Bryan Habana (2007), and Schalk Burger (2004).

"On behalf of SA Rugby, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Malcolm," said SA Rugby President Mark Alexander. "His work ethic is simply unbelievable, and he embodies everything we value in a Springbok â- resilience, commitment and character. This award is a fitting recognition of his contribution to our team and to the sport of rugby."

Alexander also praised fellow nominees Pieter-Steph du Toit, Ox Nche and Ethan Hooker, who was nominated for the World Rugby Men's Breakthrough Player of the Year award, noting that their recognition reflects the strength and depth of South African rugby under the leadership of coach Rassie Erasmus.

"To have three of the four nominees for World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year and a Breakthrough Player nominee from our country is a testament to the class of this team. We are immensely proud of them all," Alexander added.

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