Dally M Medal 2024: Jahrome Hughes named Dally M Medal winner
Melbourne Storm’s halfback superstar has been named the 2024 Dally M Medal winner just days out from the NRL Grand Final.
Melbourne Storm superstar Jahrome Hughes has been named the 2024 Dally M Medal winner, beating out Roosters’ James Tedesco by just one point.
The nerve-wracking wait for the winner culminated in Hughes receiving the slight advantage on Tedesco in the final count.
But the win wasn’t so certain as the night of nights progressed, after Hughes was deducted a six-point penalty from earlier in the season.
The Storm No.7 will now have to turn his attention to winning the premiership against the Parramatta Eels on Sunday.
Meanwhile, star winger Zac Lomax secured secure Winger of the Year alongside Brian To’o.
Lomax had earlier walked the green carpet alongside his mum, Cheree.
His choice of date mirrored the decision of 2023 Dally M winner Kalyn Ponga to bring his mother Adine at last year’s event for a bit of support.
In what turned out to be the shock of the night, the Knights fullback won the overall top award by one point.
Ponga’s win was a shock to many who had tipped Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson to win.
Even his mum Adine thought he didn’t have a chance at winning, as she revealed when asked by Fox Sports on the green carpet moments before son’s name was read out.
The Fox Sports interviewer asked: “Do you think he’s a chance of winning tonight? Hopeful?”
“Ooo,” she replied. ‘No. I’ll be proud no matter what.”
Lomax, who was in 7th place to win the Dally M before voting went behind closed doors, brought his mum Cheree along for support to walk the green carpet.
When asked by Fox Sports what the ex-Dragon – who is set to play for the Parramatta Eels in 2025 – thought about the odds in his favour, Lomax replied: “I’m not too sure.
“I think personally if I’ve got to say someone I think Jahrome (Hughes) will.
“It’s going to be a tough race.
“I’ve been proud of how I’ve performed this year but missing finals by a game wasn’t ideal but fingers crossed we’re onto a big season next year.”
While Hughes was the favourite going into the ceremony, Lomax said he was just happy to be celebrating with everyone after a huge season of rugby league.
“It’s what it’s about, everyone coming together at the end of the year,” Lomax said.
“It’s obviously been a successful season for a lot of players, a lot of teams, so these nights are good. It’s a good night to be a part of.”
The glitz and glamour was on full display on Wednesday as NRL and NRLW stars walked the green carpet with their loved ones.
It was a chance for everyone to dress to the nines and enjoy the end of the 2024 NRL season.
The 2024 Dally M Awards were held at the Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney this year.
In a surprising twist, attendees were able to walk the green carpet as the NRL opted to move away from the traditional red carpet.
Perhaps it’s an early reminder for players to think about next year’s season?
The NRL’s night of nights was held only a few days before the Grand Finals, which will see Melbourne Storm will try to take back the trophy from three-time championship winners Penrith.
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