Samoan rugby player known for being part of a talented rugby-playing family and representing Samoa in international competitions. He's a skilled flanker and number 8 with a strong physical presence on the field.
Henry Tuilagi, born on August 12, 1976, is a former professional rugby union player from Samoa, renowned for his exceptional skills on the field and his contributions to the sport. Over the course of his illustrious career, Tuilagi represented the Samoa national team, playing in the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s, and made a name for himself in club rugby in Italy, France, and England.
In 2002, Tuilagi joined the Italian Super 10 competition, playing for Parma, where his younger brother Alesana had already made a mark. During his time with Parma, he appeared in the European Challenge Cup, showcasing his talent against top-notch teams like London Wasps.
Tuilagi's international debut came in 2002, when he played against Fiji in Apia, Samoa, as part of the Samoa squad for the Pacific Rim Championship. What's more, he made history by playing alongside his brothers Fereti and Alesana in the World Cup qualifier against Fiji at Nadi, marking a memorable moment for the Tuilagi family.
In 2004, Tuilagi joined the Leicester Tigers, where he made 24 first-team appearances in his inaugural season. He scored a try on his debut match against London Irish, setting the tone for his time with the team. Although his next season was cut short due to a broken leg, he persevered and continued to make a mark in the rugby world.
The Tuilagi family has long been associated with the Leicester Tigers, with Henry's brother Alesana (also known as Alex) having played for the team before moving to Japan. His other brothers, Fereti (Freddie), Anitelea (Andy), Manu, and Sanele Vavae Tuilagi, are all former players, fostering a strong connection between the Tuilagi family and the Leicester Tigers.
In 2007, Tuilagi moved to France to play for Perpignan in the Top 14. His son, Posolo Tuilagi, born in 2004, would later follow in his footsteps, joining Perpignan in 2022. In a courageous move, Tuilagi went public about his struggles with depression in 2020, following the death of French player Franck Lascassies, raising awareness about mental health in sports.
Henry Tuilagi's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the rugby world. His dedication, perseverance, and achievements have inspired countless young players, particularly those from Samoa and the Pacific Islands. As a testament to his contribution, Tuilagi's story serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging athletes to speak out about their struggles and seek support.
44 Years Old
A talented flanker who played for the All Blacks and Chiefs, known for his dynamic performances and strong tackling ability.
52 Years Old
A former All Blacks captain and coach, known for his innovative and attacking playing style, which inspired a generation of rugby players.
43 Years Old
A legendary fly-half who led the All Blacks to numerous victories, including two World Cup titles, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in rugby history.
44 Years Old
A dominant and iconic flanker who led the All Blacks to numerous championships, including two World Cup titles, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby players of all time.
