In a glittering ceremony at Royal Randwick Racecourse, Rob Valetini was crowned the 2024 John Eales Medalist, Australian rugby’s highest individual honor. The 26-year-old ACT Brumbies star became just the third player to claim back-to-back medals, joining an elite group that includes Israel Folau (2014-15) and Michael Hooper (2020-21).
A Rare Achievement
Valetini’s latest triumph sees him enter rarefied air in Australian rugby. The powerful back-rower is now the sixth player to win multiple John Eales Medals, alongside luminaries like George Smith, Nathan Sharpe, David Pocock, Israel Folau, and Michael Hooper.
It’s an incredible honor to be mentioned in the same breath as those legends of our game. I’m truly humbled and grateful for this recognition.
– Rob Valetini
Teammates’ Choice
The John Eales Medal is voted on by the players themselves, with a 3-2-1 system used after each Test match. Valetini’s consistent excellence throughout 2024 saw him edge out Queensland Reds flanker Fraser McReight for the top gong.
Wallabies Lynchpin
Valetini featured in all nine of Australia’s Tests in 2024 and is expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming spring tour of the UK and Ireland. The Wallabies have a golden opportunity to complete a fabled grand slam, with clashes against England, Wales, Scotland, and top-ranked Ireland on the horizon.
Other Award Winners
The awards night also celebrated several other standout performers:
- Fraser McReight – Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year (back-to-back)
- Maddison Levi – Women’s Sevens Player of the Year (back-to-back)
- Maya Stewart – Wallaroos Player of the Year
- Nathan Lawson – Men’s Sevens Player of the Year
- Siokapesi Palu – Super Rugby Women’s Player of the Year
Rising Stars Recognized
The event also shone a spotlight on Australian rugby’s brightest young talents. NSW Waratahs winger Tim Ryan was named Rookie of the Year and won Try of the Year for a scintillating solo effort against the Blues. Under-20s captain Toby Macpherson claimed the Junior Men’s Player of the Year award, while 18-year-old sensation Caitlyn Halse, already the Wallaroos’ starting fullback, took home the Junior Women’s honor.
Hall of Fame Inductees
In an emotional high point of the evening, Toutai Kefu and Matthew Burke were inducted into the Wallabies Hall of Fame. Women’s rugby trailblazers Selena Tranter (nee Worsley), Cheryl McAfee (nee Soon), and Emilee Barton (nee Cherry) also took their rightful place in the Australian Women’s Rugby Hall of Fame.
These extraordinary individuals have left an indelible mark on our sport. Their induction is a fitting tribute to their immense contributions both on and off the field.
– Rugby Australia Chairman, Hamish McLennan
As Rob Valetini basks in the glow of his historic achievement, Australian rugby fans will be hoping this is just the beginning of a memorable season for the Wallabies and their talismanic back-rower. With the World Cup looming in 2024, Valetini’s leadership and indomitable spirit could prove the key to unlocking the Wallabies’ potential on the game’s greatest stage.
