Get ready for an exciting journey as we dive into Planet Rugby's Top 50 Men's Players of 2025! This list is a celebration of the sport's finest, and we're about to uncover some incredible stories and performances. But here's where it gets controversial... some players' journeys are more remarkable than others, and we're about to highlight those breakthrough moments that caught everyone's attention.
The Rise of the Rugby Stars: Unveiling the Top 50
In the lead-up to the new year, Planet Rugby is proud to present the official Top 50 men's players of 2025. It's been an exceptional year for rugby union, with the Springboks showcasing their dominance once again and the British & Irish Lions reclaiming their winning streak.
Let's dive into the latest section of this prestigious list, revealing the players who have made it to positions 40-31.
40. Ruan Nortjé: A Captain's Leadership
Ruan Nortjé, the lock from South Africa, has had an outstanding season. He captained the Bulls domestically and quickly became an integral part of the South African national team. His work ethic is unparalleled, and he's on track to become a long-term fixture for the Springboks. In a memorable performance, Nortjé led the Boks to victory over France in Paris, despite playing with a man down after Lood de Jager's red card.
39. Ethan Hooker: Versatility Personified
Ethan Hooker, a utility back for South Africa, showcased his versatility throughout the year, contributing to the team's wins. He was even nominated for the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year award. Hooker's ability to excel at both centre and wing positions for the Sharks was a key factor in South Africa's success. His first Test start against the All Blacks in Wellington was an unforgettable performance.
38. Fabian Holland: New Zealand's Rising Star
Fabian Holland, the lock from New Zealand, had a breakthrough year that helped his team dominate the Rugby Championship and Autumn Nations Series. His strong campaign with the Highlanders earned him the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year award. Holland made a powerful statement in his Test debut against France in Dunedin, showcasing his all-round skills and putting in a full 80-minute effort.
37. Gregory Alldritt: Leading France to Victory
Gregory Alldritt, the number eight from France, played a crucial role in his team's Six Nations win. His leadership skills were on full display, both with the national team and for La Rochelle. In the Six Nations match against Ireland, Alldritt carried the ball an impressive 25 times for 110 metres, showcasing his endurance and impact on the game.
36. Charles Ollivon: Overcoming Injury
Charles Ollivon, the flanker from France, suffered a serious ACL knee injury in January 2025, which kept him out of the entire Six Nations, the summer tour, and most of the club season with Toulon. Despite this setback, Ollivon made a remarkable comeback, earning the Player of the Match award in his return game against Fiji. He followed this up with another standout performance against Bath, proving his elite form had returned after a nine-month layoff.
35. Jasper Wiese: Powering South Africa's Success
Jasper Wiese, the number eight from South Africa, was a driving force behind the Boks' successes. His importance to the team was evident when he returned from a suspension, delivering a superb performance in their Rugby Championship win over the All Blacks. With his club, Urayasu D-Rocks, Wiese provided a solid base for their attacking strategies.
34. Tommy Freeman: England's Strike Runner
Tommy Freeman, the wing from England, established himself as the team's go-to strike runner. His aerial dominance and sharp finishing skills were key to England's success in the Six Nations. At Northampton Saints, Freeman's pace and off-ball work were instrumental in shaping their attacking plays. In the Six Nations, Freeman scored a try in each of England's five matches, with his performance against France in Round Two being a standout moment.
33. Len Ikitau: Australia's Defensive Anchor
Len Ikitau, the centre from Australia, remained a defensive stalwart for the Wallabies this year. His sharp attacking lines and solid performance contributed to a successful year for the team. At the Brumbies, Ikitau's distribution and tackle efficiency were standout features, and his move to Exeter further solidified his impact. In the third and final encounter with the British & Irish Lions in Sydney, Ikitau's excellent attacking display helped the Wallabies secure a win.
32. Damian de Allende: South Africa's Physical Force
Damian de Allende, the centre from South Africa, was a key figure in the Boks' Rugby Championship title win and their dominant autumn performances. His physicality and impressive displays with the Wild Knights at club level made him an invaluable asset. After a shock loss to the Wallabies in Johannesburg, de Allende returned for the rematch in Cape Town, delivering a brilliant all-round performance as the world champions gained their revenge.
31. Henry Pollock: England's Breakthrough Player
Henry Pollock, the flanker from England, had a breakthrough season that helped his team achieve four wins in the Six Nations and an impressive autumn clean sweep. His form earned him a nomination for the Breakthrough Player award. With Northampton, Pollock shone during their run to the Investec Champions Cup final. In their Autumn Nations Series clash with New Zealand, Pollock made a significant impact off the bench, causing problems for the All Blacks' defence in the final quarter.
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