While rugby is a sport built on respect, that doesn\u2019t mean every player is universally adored. Some names simply wind up opposition fans like no other \u2014 through foul play, off-field controversies, or just being so annoyingly good.<\/p>\n
Join RUCK\u2019s Instagram broadcast channel\u00a0<\/a>and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.<\/p>\n With legends like Johnny Sexton and Dan Biggar now retired, a new (and familiar) cast of characters dominates the \u201cmost hated\u201d rankings, as voted by fans. Two Springboks feature \u2014 and one of them tops the list.<\/p>\n #6.\u00a0Eben Etzebeth (South Africa\/Sharks)<\/p>\n Position:\u00a0Lock A walking menace on the field, Etzebeth is the definition of a player you love on your team and loathe on the opposition. Brutal in the tackle, master of the dark arts in the ruck, and never far from an off-the-ball scrap. His sheer physical dominance and fiery temperament make him a nightmare for rivals.<\/p>\n That being said, many fans admire his old-school enforcer mentality \u2014 just as long as he\u2019s not slamming your favourite player into next week.<\/p>\n RUCK Verdict: #5.\u00a0Owen Farrell (England\/Racing 92)<\/p>\n Position:\u00a0Fly-Half\/Centre Once the undisputed No.1 on this list, Farrell has seen the hate ease up a bit since stepping away from England duty in 2024. But don\u2019t be fooled \u2014 his infamous \u201cshoulder-first\u201d tackling style, fiery competitiveness, and snarling leadership still rile up fans and pundits alike.<\/p>\n Farrell\u2019s critics point to repeated high tackles and lenient disciplinary treatment, while supporters admire his elite mentality and unwavering loyalty.<\/p>\n RUCK Verdict: CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO<\/a><\/p>\n Like this:<\/p>\n Like Loading…<\/p>\n
Caps:\u00a0131 (as of 2025)
Major Honours:\u00a0\ud83c\udfc6 2x Rugby World Cup winner (2019, 2023)<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of the game\u2019s last true hard men \u2014 and one of the most divisive.\u201d<\/p>\n
Caps:\u00a0112
Major Honours:\u00a0\ud83c\udfc9 England captain, 3x Six Nations titles, 3x Lions tours<\/p>\n
\u201cStill England\u2019s pantomime villain \u2014 unless he\u2019s your guy. Then he walks on water.\u201d<\/p>\n