It is the oldest rugby sevens competition in the world,[1] dating back to 1883 when the tournament was suggested by former Melrose players Ned Haig[2] and Davie Sanderson.

[3] Shogun are the current men and women's holders having won the tournament in 2024.

Held every April, the tournament is part of the Kings of the Sevens competition, and has attracted teams from as far afield as Japan, Hong Kong, Uruguay and South Africa.

[citation needed] In September 2019 the organisers had set out plans for the Melrose Sevens to relaunch as a four-day festival of music and rugby.

[6] Domestically, the tournament is broadcast live on YouTube and locally, from the first tie right through to the final, on Borders Rugby Radio