James Tedesco churned through a staggering 385 run metres and claimed the Clive Churchill Medal as the Sydney Roosters defeated the Newcastle Knights 19-18 in the 2026 NRL grand final, securing the club’s first men’s premiership title since 2019.
Sydney Roosters Edge Newcastle Knights 19-18 in 2026 NRL Grand Final
Sydney Roosters fullback James Tedesco put on an unforgettable individual display in the 2026 NRL grand final on Sunday evening, winning the Clive Churchill Medal as player of the match. The Roosters captain led his side to a tense 19-18 win over the Newcastle Knights, completing his set of the game’s greatest individual honours. The Bondi club brought the total count of first-grade premierships to 16.
Tedesco’s performance broke records on the biggest stage. He ran an incredible 385 metres, establishing the most run metres by any player in an NRL finals match. Operating with relentless energy, he also added 14 tackle breaks, a try assist, a line break assist, and forced two drop-outs while handling two clutch kick receptions in the final minutes. His aggressive and speedy kick returns accounted for 170 metres alone, putting his team constantly on the front foot.
I didn’t think I’d be so emotional. I’m so proud of this team. What a game. I’m speechless.
James Tedesco, Sydney Roosters Captain, via Nine
Retired Parramatta great Peter Sterling presented the medal to Tedesco, marking 40 years since Sterling became the first winner of the iconic award. For Tedesco, the player-of-the-match accolade joins his Wally Lewis Medal from the 2019 State of Origin series and Dally M gongs from 2019 and 2025.
Daly Cherry-Evans Kicks Field Goal in Final Roosters Appearance
The Roosters had to fight back from a 12-6 half-time deficit against a courageous Knights outfit. Johnathan Thurston noted that the team’s power game, speed around the ruck, and spine composure fueled the turnaround, while Naufahu Whyte delivered an incredible effort setting the tone in the forward pack.
A Daly Cherry-Evans field goal proved to be the deciding score in the 19-18 thriller. Cherry-Evans joined the Roosters in the off-season on a one-year deal following a switch from Manly, and the playmaker will now head to Hull FC to finish his career.
“He has helped me so much on and off the field. That’s why we got him, to ice into those big moments and he did that tonight. I’m so, so happy we could have a fairytale ending for him.”
James Tedesco, Sydney Roosters Captain, via Nine
Roosters coach Trent Robinson praised his skipper’s tireless work rate during the frantic closing stages, noting that Tedesco was continually cleaning up loose balls, taking kick returns, and handling last-tackle duties.
From Blues Demotion to Historic Premiership Captaincy
Tedesco’s triumph caps a remarkable professional turnaround. Over two years ago, the fullback was dropped from the NSW Blues side after Dylan Edwards superseded him in the role. Yet the 33-year-old has since retained his Blues No. 1 jersey and cemented his legacy by capturing his first premiership as captain.
While Tedesco previously won back-to-back titles with the Roosters alongside Cooper Cronk in 2018 and 2019, this title marks his first time captaining a side to grand final victory.
“It was such a big one for Ted tonight to captain a premiership. He’s played in two, but to captain one was was really special for him. So yeah, we’re pretty blessed.”
Trent Robinson, Sydney Roosters Coach, via Nine
The victory brings the Roosters’ tally of first-grade premierships to 16, adding to a golden day for the club after their NRLW side also secured the title earlier in the day.