James Tedesco has joined Johnathan Thurston as the only four-time winner of the players’ champion award, after being voted the NRL’s best player of 2025 by his peers….
James Tedesco Joins Johnathan Thurston as Only Four-Time Winner of NRL Players’ Champion Award
In an extraordinary achievement that cements his legacy among rugby league’s all-time greats, James Tedesco has been voted the NRL’s best player of the 2025 season by his peers, winning the prestigious Players’ Champion award for the fourth time. This remarkable feat places Tedesco alongside the legendary Johnathan Thurston as the only players in NRL history to claim the accolade on four separate occasions.
The Players’ Champion award is a unique honor in the NRL, as it is determined by the votes of fellow players who compete against the nominees week in and week out. Unlike other awards, which may rely on media panels or statistical analysis, this prize reflects the respect and admiration earned directly on the field from those who know the game best. For Tedesco, being recognized by his peers marks the pinnacle of professional validation.
Throughout the 2025 season, Tedesco demonstrated why he is considered one of the finest fullbacks in rugby league history. His combination of blistering speed, razor-sharp game awareness, and unyielding determination saw him dominate games and inspire his team week after week. Whether it was slicing through opposition defenses, setting up crucial tries, or making critical defensive plays, Tedesco consistently rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
The Sydney Roosters star finished the season with eye-catching stats, including a career-high number of try assists, line breaks, and tackle busts, further highlighting his impact in both attack and defense. His leadership on the field was equally influential, guiding younger teammates and often dictating the pace of play with calm precision. These qualities have long been associated with elite players, but Tedesco’s sustained excellence throughout 2025 elevated him to a level few can match.
James Tedesco’s achievement also carries a symbolic significance in the modern game. In an era characterized by increasing athleticism and tactical complexity, maintaining peak performance across multiple seasons is a monumental challenge. To be voted the Players’ Champion four times — previously accomplished only by Johnathan Thurston, a player revered for his skill, intelligence, and leadership — is a testament to Tedesco’s unwavering commitment to excellence and resilience.
Reflecting on the honor, Tedesco expressed his gratitude to his teammates and competitors alike. “To be recognized by the players — the guys who really know the game and what it takes — means everything to me,” he said. “It’s a huge privilege to be mentioned in the same breath as JT, who has been an inspiration for so many of us. This award isn’t just about individual performance; it’s about the hard work and support from my teammates, coaches, and family. I’m proud of what we achieved this season, and I’m motivated to keep pushing forward.”
The 2025 Players’ Champion award adds another chapter to Tedesco’s distinguished career, one that has been decorated with representative honors, club championships, and personal accolades. As he joins Thurston in this exclusive club, the NRL community celebrates not only his individual brilliance but also the spirit of camaraderie and competition that defines the sport.
Looking ahead, the challenge for Tedesco will be to maintain this exceptional standard and continue inspiring the next generation of players. But if the 2025 season is any indication, James Tedesco’s name will be etched in rugby league history for many years to come.
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