South African · Johannesburg, South Africa · Born 13 July 1994Malcolm Marx is a South African hooker regarded as one of the best in the world, key to the Springboks' back-to-back World Cup triumphs.
Malcolm Justin Marx was born on 13 July 1994 in Germiston, South Africa, and attended King Edward VII School in Johannesburg, progressing through the Golden Lions system after representing the union at multiple age-grade tournaments. Though he plays hooker, his early development in forward positions at youth level gave him unusual mobility and ball-carrying ability for the role. Marx made his senior debut for the Lions and quickly established himself as one of the most destructive hookers in world rugby, renowned for his powerful ball-carrying, relentless tackling, and turnover-winning ability at the breakdown. He made his Springbok debut in September 2016, and his performances the following year, including 12 Test starts, earned him both the SA Rugby Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards. Marx was part of the Springbok squad that won the 2019 Rugby World Cup, though a serious knee injury limited him to just 51 minutes of playing time at the 2023 tournament, which South Africa also won, giving him back-to-back World Cup winner's medals. He moved to Japan's Top League in 2020, first with Urayasu D-Rocks before joining Kubota Spears. Marx was named World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year in 2025, capping a career widely regarded as having redefined the modern hooker position, and continues to be a key figure for the Springboks while playing his club rugby in Japan.
World-class Springbok hooker, two-time World Cup winner
How They Played
Marx is renowned for his exceptional lineout throwing accuracy and mobility around the field for a forward. He combines traditional hooker skills with dynamic ball-carrying ability, often breaking defensive lines with his pace and footwork. His work rate and fitness levels allow him to be highly effective in both attack and defense throughout the entire match.
Lasting Impact
Marx has redefined the modern hooker position by combining traditional set-piece excellence with exceptional mobility and ball-handling skills. His performances have set new standards for the position and influenced how hookers are developed and utilized in professional rugby.
Career Honours
- Rugby World Cup winner 2019 & 2023
- World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year 2025
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lions | 2013–2021 | 88 | 0 | #8 |
| Kubota Spears | 2021–2024 | 148 | — | #8 |
 South Africa | — | 58 | — | — |
South African Athletes