Sydney, Australia — In a watershed moment for rugby league, Penrith Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary has been named the Most Impactful Team Player in Rugby for the 2025 season, cementing his status as one of the sport’s most powerful characters. Cleary’s honour comes after a spectacular season in which he not only guided the Panthers to their fourth straight NRL Grand Final appearance, but also redefined what it means to be a team leader in modern rugby.
Cleary edged over a star-studded field that includes Ryan Papenhuyzen of the Melbourne Storm, Reece Walsh of the Brisbane Broncos, and his former colleague Stephen Crichton, who now plays for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Despite the strong competition, Cleary’s overall brilliance, coolness under duress, and unwavering leadership earned him the top prize.
The 27-year-old maestro finished the 2025 season with a career-high 31 try assists, 12 tries, and a goal-kicking percentage of over 88%, but his impact went far beyond the stats. Cleary has become the Panthers’ brain and heartbeat, organizing set plays and directing match tempos, dictating outcomes while elevating those around him.
“Nathan has become the most complete rugby league player of his generation,” stated Panthers’ head coach, Ivan Cleary, who is also his father. “What sets him apart isn’t just his talent; it’s the vision, preparation, and accountability he brings to every game and practice. He’s lifted the bar for everyone in our organisation.”
What genuinely distinguishes Cleary is his performance in high-pressure situations. He had another famous effort in the 2025 NRL Preliminary Final, scoring a last-minute try and nailing the game-winning conversion to send the Panthers to the Grand Final. It was a moment that exemplified his cool under pressure—a trait that even his harshest enemies have come to admire.
Off the field, Cleary has embraced the role of role model with grace and humility. His work with youth rugby programs, mental health initiatives, and Indigenous community engagement has gained him widespread acclaim. He’s become the game’s face not only in Australia, but throughout the world, with fans from the UK Super League to New Zealand watching his every move.
“It’s a real honour,” Cleary remarked in his acceptance speech. “This honor is more than just about my accomplishment; it reflects the incredible support I’ve received from my teammates, coaches, and the Panthers community. “I play for them.”
Rugby league veterans and observers think that Cleary’s 2025 season was unforgettable. “He’s rewriting the legacy of the modern halfback,” exclaimed former Kangaroo captain Darren Lockyer. “He is tactical, courageous, and motivating. The game is in excellent hands, with Nathan guiding the way.”
Fans can only watch in admiration as Cleary continues to etch his name into rugby league history. With his finest years still ahead of him, 2025 may simply be a stepping stone to a career that defines a generation.