Pacific excellence gets nominations at 2025 World Rugby Awards

Three players of Pacific Island heritage have been nominated for the 2025 World Rugby Awards, with the winners to be announced on Saturday.

All Black Tupou Vaai, Flying Fijian Lekima Tagitagivalu, and Wallaby Joseph Aukuso-Suali’i have been nominated in two categories.

Vaai and Tagitagivalu are contenders for the Rugby Players Association Men’s 15s Try of the Year, while Aukuso-Suali’i is nominated for Breakthrough Player of the Year.

Vaai’s nomination comes from his performance in the All Blacks’ second Test match against France in Wellington back in July.

In a remarkable display of interplay, Vaai finished off a perfectly executed team try. The play started with a break from captain Ardie Savea, setting up an unrelenting attack. The ball was skillfully passed through the hands of Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, and Fabian Holland, who offloaded to Vaai. He charged from just outside the 20-metre line to score before half-time.

Tagitagivalu’s try showcased individual brilliance from team-mate Jiuta Waniqolo. At a moment when they looked unsettled in attack, Waniqolo regained possession and dodged several Australian defenders before charging from the 22.

As he entered the Wallabies’ 22, he found Tagitagivalu in support, who beat a Wallaby defender before scoring in the corner.

In other categories, Aukuso-Suali’i has had a standout season in rugby union, playing a key role in international Test matches as the Australians prepare to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Aukuso-Suali’i told the media how honoured he is about his nomination. “It’s pretty cool to get named, I’m not too sure who’s won the award… no award goes without a team so it’s all credit to the team for being able to be nominated.”

Suali’i will be looking to end their three-game losing streak as they prepare to face France this Sunday. For more information on international rugby test fixtures and results, click here.