ROOSTERS, LEAGUE BODIES HAIL TEDESCO AS CLUB’S UNDISPUTED G.O.A.T AFTER LONG-TERM COMMITMENT
The Sydney Roosters, ABC News, NRL.com and the Rugby League Players Association have united to name captain James Tedesco the club’s undoubtedly greatest of all time (G.O.A.T) after he pledged his long-term future to Bondi Junction – choosing legacy over big money by extending his contract until 2027.
Tedesco’s decision to commit for a 10th season – having joined in 2018 – means he could retire as a one-club Rooster, a rare feat in modern rugby league. In announcing the deal in late 2025, the star fullback made clear his motivation was not financial. “I’d rather give every bit of energy I have to this club than chase a bigger cheque elsewhere – this is where I belong,” he said.
The outpouring of praise has been unprecedented. Sydney Roosters chairman Nick Politis described Tedesco as “our greatest ever player, bar none”. “His royalty isn’t measured in dollars, but in the heart he shows every time he pulls on the tricolours,” Politis added.
ABC News sports correspondent David Mark highlighted the significance of Tedesco’s loyalty in an era of player movement: “In a game where contracts are often broken for cash, his commitment is a reminder of what club football can mean.” NRL.com’s chief rugby league writer Martin Lenehan echoed this, calling him “a generational talent who has chosen to build his entire legacy in one place”.
The RLPA, which has recognised Tedesco with multiple Players’ Champion awards, praised his leadership both on and off the field. “James embodies everything the modern player should be – skilled, dedicated and fiercely loyal to his club,” said RLPA CEO Clint Newton.
His on-field achievements back up the G.O.A.T claim: back-to-back NRL Premierships in 2018 and 2019, dual Dally M Medals (2019 and 2025), numerous Jack Gibson Medals as club Player of the Year, and club records for runs, metres and tackle breaks. At 33, his 2025 form – which earned him a second Dally M – proved he remains at the peak of his powers.
For Roosters fans, the news is a celebration of their most cherished player: a captain who has given his all, and will continue to do so, for the club he calls home.ROOSTERS, LEAGUE BODIES ANOINT TEDESCO AS UNDISPUTED G.O.A.T AFTER LONG-TERM LOYALTY PLEDGE
The Sydney Roosters, ABC News, NRL.com and the Rugby League Players Association have united to name captain James Tedesco the club’s undoubtedly greatest of all time (G.O.A.T) – repaying his money-spurning loyalty after he committed to playing out a potential 10-year, one-club career at Bondi Junction until 2027.
Since arriving in 2018, Tedesco has turned down lucrative offers to extend his stay, with his latest contract announcement in late 2025 ensuring he will hit a decade in tricolours. “I don’t play for the cash – I play for this club, and I’m putting every ounce of energy I have left into wearing this jersey for as long as I can,” he said, encapsulating the devotion that has made him a fan favourite.
Sydney Roosters CEO Joe Kelly led the praise: “James’s royalty is in his heart, not his bank account. He’s our G.O.A.T, and this commitment cements that forever.” ABC News sports presenter Mel McLaughlin highlighted the rarity of his loyalty in modern rugby league: “In an era of constant player movement, his decision to build his entire legacy here is extraordinary.”
NRL.com’s chief analyst Brad Walter described Tedesco as “a generational talent who has redefined the fullback role”, while RLPA CEO Clint Newton praised him as “the embodiment of excellence and loyalty – a player who has earned every award and every bit of respect”.
His trophy cabinet tells the story: back-to-back NRL Premierships in 2018 and 2019, dual Dally M Player of the Year awards (2019 and 2025), and a record five consecutive Jack Gibson Medals as club Player of the Year (2018-2022) – plus multiple Members Player of the Year honours. He has also claimed four RLPA Players’ Champion awards (2017, 2019, 2022, 2025) during his Roosters tenure, making him the most decorated player in the club’s history.
Statistically, he stands alone, holding club records for most runs, metres gained and tackle breaks. At 33, his 2025 form – which earned him a second Dally M – proved he remains at the peak of his powers, leading the Roosters to a top-four finish.
For Roosters fans and the wider league community, the news is a celebration of a must-honour player who has given his all – and will continue to do so – for the club he calls home.
