Rugby is widely known for its values of sportsmanship, respect, and camaraderie. However, as with any competitive sport, there are players who may not be universally favored by fans, opponents, or even their own teammates.
Recently, a study was conducted to rank the most disliked rugby players. The study utilized an AI tool that analyzed tweets mentioning players and assessed their sentiment. The tweets were scored according to whether they conveyed positive or negative sentiments about the player. The study excluded any player with fewer than 100 mentions.
Through this method, a list of the most disliked rugby players was generated, revealing which players were viewed unfavorably by the public. This study highlights the importance of maintaining the values of sportsmanship, respect, and camaraderie in rugby and all sports.
5. Peter O'Mahony - Ireland
The AI wrote: "Peter O'Mahony is an Irish rugby player who has been known for his aggressive and physical style of play.
"He has been involved in several controversial incidents on the field, including incidents of dangerous play and confrontations with opponents.
"O'Mahony's no-nonsense approach and aggressive demeanor have resulted in him being disliked by some opponents and fans."
Peter O'Mahony of Ireland during the Summer International match between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on the 24th August 2019. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK.
#4. Eben Etzebeth - South Africa)
The AI wrote: "Eben Etzebeth is a South African rugby player who is known for his physicality and aggressive playing style.
"Etzebeth's combative approach on the field and off-field controversies have resulted in him being disliked by many opponents and fans.
Eben Etzebeth of South Africa during the Autumn Nations Match between England and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on 20 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#3. Joe Marler - England
The AI wrote: "Joe Marler is an English rugby player who has been known for his provocative and sometimes controversial behavior on the field. He has been involved in incidents such as grabbing opponents' genitals and making inappropriate gestures during games, which have led to criticism and sanctions.
"Marler's sometimes inappropriate behavior has made him a polarizing figure, with some fans and players disliking his antics on the field."
Joe Marler of Harlequins looks dejected during the Gallagher Premiership match between Saracens and Harlequins at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London on 25 March 2023 (Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK)
#2. Dan Biggar - Wales
The AI wrote: "Dan Biggar is a Welsh rugby player who has a reputation for his confrontational and abrasive personality on the field.
"He has been accused of dirty play, including dangerous tackles and late hits, and has been known to provoke opponents with his trash talk.
"Biggar's no-nonsense approach and sometimes provocative behavior have made him a polarizing figure among rugby fans and players alike."
#1. Owen Farrell - England
The AI wrote: "Owen Farrell is an English rugby player who has been both admired and criticised for his passionate and aggressive style of play.
"However, his on-field demeanor has also been a source of controversy, with accusations of dangerous tackles, leading with the elbow, and unsportsmanlike behavior.
"Farrell's intense competitiveness and occasional confrontational attitude have led to him being disliked by some opponents and fans alike."
A dejected Owen Farrell of England applauds in the direction of the England supporters at full-time following the Guinness Six Nations match between England and France at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on Saturday 11th March 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.