Hawkins began playing the sport in 2014 after being bedridden for 18 months with chronic fatigue syndrome and made his England debut in 2019.
England coach Tom Coyd said: “Rob is one of the most dedicated players I have ever worked with. To be once bedridden and get where he has now is so inspirational.
“On the pitch his frightening speed makes him a prolific finisher and try saver, but he also loves to protect his team-mates and will never back down from a challenge – that’s what I love the most about him as a player.
“He is a wonderful ambassador for our team, his community and the sport.”
Hawkins is the third English player to win the Golden Boot after Jack Brown took the inaugural award in 2019, followed by Seb Bechara in 2022.
France’s Jeremy Bourson, who plays alongside Hawkins for Halifax, was last year’s winner.
