Australian rugby league fullback/five-eighth for Manly Sea Eagles and NSW Blues, known for his attacking flair and versatility in multiple positions.
Born on July 26, 1997, in Sydney, Australia, Thomas Trbojevic emerged from the Mona Vale Raiders junior system before joining the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles' youth development program. The son of Peter Trbojevic, a former professional rugby league player, he grew up in a sporting household alongside his brother Jake, who also pursued a professional rugby league career. Trbojevic's exceptional athletic ability was evident from his teenage years, leading to his rapid progression through Manly's junior ranks. Trbojevic made his NRL debut with Manly in 2015 at age 18, initially playing as a winger before transitioning to fullback where his game-breaking abilities flourished. His breakthrough season came in 2017 when he established himself as one of the competition's premier attacking weapons, earning his first State of Origin selection for New South Wales. The period from 2018 to 2021 marked his peak years, during which he became renowned for his explosive finishing and ability to create tries from seemingly impossible positions. His nickname "Tommy Turbo" became synonymous with spectacular attacking play and match-winning performances. The 2021 NRL season represented the pinnacle of Trbojevic's career achievements. He scored 28 tries in just 20 games, claiming the Dally M Medal as the competition's best player while leading Manly to the finals. This remarkable try-scoring rate demonstrated his unparalleled finishing ability and positional play. He has represented Australia in international rugby league and been selected multiple times for New South Wales in State of Origin competition, cementing his status among the game's elite players. Despite his extraordinary talent, Trbojevic's career has been significantly impacted by recurring shoulder injuries that have limited his playing time across multiple seasons. Nevertheless, his influence on modern rugby league remains profound. His playing style has redefined expectations for the fullback position, combining traditional defensive duties with an unprecedented attacking threat that has influenced tactical approaches throughout the NRL.
Dally M Medal winner and dynamic attacking play from fullback position
How They Played
Dynamic attacking fullback with exceptional ball-handling skills, speed, and ability to create opportunities from broken play
Lasting Impact
Trbojevic has redefined the modern fullback position with his combination of speed, skill, and game management abilities.
Career Honours
- State of Origin 2021 (NSW Blues)
- Dally M Medal 2021 (NRL Player of the Year)
- Dally M Fullback of the Year 2021
- Dally M Fullback of the Year 2023
- Brad Fittler Medal 2021 (NSW Player of the Year)
- RLPA Players' Champion 2021
- NRL All-Star selection 2022
- State of Origin 2018 (NSW Blues)
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manly Sea Eagles | 2015–2024 | 129 | 9 | #1 |
| — | 19 | — | — |