James Tedesco emotional following grand final victory

The Sydney Roosters have secured victory in the 2026 NRL Grand Final, defeating the Newcastle Knights in a closely contested match. The game concluded with the Roosters celebrating a championship win, while the Knights were left to process a narrow defeat.

James Tedesco delivered a standout performance for the Roosters, visibly moved to tears following the final whistle. His contribution was described as a colossal effort throughout the match, serving as a pivotal factor in his team's success on the grand stage.

The Newcastle Knights mounted a spirited challenge, managing to strike with points in the dying minutes of the game. Despite this late surge, the team was unable to overcome the deficit, leading to a somber post-match reaction. Kalyn Ponga expressed the depth of the disappointment, stating that the loss hurt significantly.

The match also featured a notable moment from Daly Cherry-Evans, who successfully converted a field goal during the contest. This play added to the tactical intensity of the final, which remained competitive until the closing moments.

As the Roosters celebrated their title, the contrast between the two sides was evident on the field. The result marks the conclusion of the 2026 season, with the Roosters emerging as the premiership winners following the high-stakes encounter.