Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco has reportedly earned a place among the world’s most influential sporting figures, marking another significant milestone in an outstanding rugby league career. The announcement has generated excitement among supporters, with the Australian fullback continuing to strengthen his reputation as one of the National Rugby League’s most respected players.
The recognition is particularly significant because it highlights the growing international profile of rugby league and the athletes whose performances, leadership and influence extend beyond their respective competitions.
TIME introduced its TIME100 Sports list in 2026 to recognise influential figures across the sporting world. However, Tedesco’s reported inclusion requires confirmation against the magazine’s official list before it can be presented as an established fact.
A Remarkable Career Built on Consistency
Tedesco has established himself as a leading figure in Australian rugby league through years of outstanding performances at club, state and international levels. Since joining the Sydney Roosters in 2018, he has become central to the club’s success, combining explosive running, excellent positional awareness and an ability to change matches through individual brilliance.
His performances have helped establish him as one of the competition’s most influential fullbacks. As captain, he has also taken on greater responsibility, guiding teammates through the pressures of the NRL season and setting standards through his performances on the field.
His career achievements have earned widespread respect from teammates, opponents and rugby league supporters.
Roosters Captain Continues to Collect Major Honours
Tedesco’s standing in the game has been reinforced by a series of individual accolades. In September 2026, he was named fullback in the Rugby League Players Association’s Players’ Dream Team, an honour determined by votes from fellow NRL players.
That selection marked his sixth appearance in the team, making him the first player to achieve the milestone. The accomplishment underlined the respect he commands among his peers and his continued ability to perform at an elite level.
The Roosters captain has also earned recognition through the Dally M awards and State of Origin, demonstrating his ability to deliver consistently across different levels of the sport.
Leadership and Influence Beyond the Field
For Tedesco, influence extends beyond statistics, tries and match-winning performances. His leadership at the Roosters has made him an important figure within the club, while his visibility in representative football has helped introduce his achievements to broader audiences.
International recognition would further strengthen his profile and provide another opportunity to showcase Australian rugby league to sports fans around the world.
The sport continues to attract passionate audiences, particularly in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, while its leading players remain important ambassadors for their clubs and communities.
A Legacy Still Taking Shape
At 33, Tedesco remains a significant presence in the NRL and continues to add to an already impressive career. His combination of experience, athleticism and leadership has helped him remain among the competition’s leading players.
Whether through individual awards, team success or influence within the game, his achievements have secured his place among modern rugby league’s standout figures.
If confirmed by TIME, inclusion on its influential sports list would represent another notable milestone for the Roosters captain and provide further recognition of his contribution to the sport.
For supporters, the reported honour offers another reason to celebrate a player whose career continues to shape the modern NRL.