The illustrious rugby career of Fiji men’s rugby sevens captain Jerry Tuwai has officially come to an end. The 35-year-old announced his retirement yesterday, just hours after leading the Fiji team to a silver medal at the Paris Olympic Games at the Stade de France.
Tuwai’s career boasts two Olympic gold medals, a silver medal, and a Rugby World Cup Sevens title. He has also been named the World Rugby Sevens Player of the Decade. “First gold in Rio with the now coach Osea Kolinisau,” Tuwai said. “Then 2020 was a blessing with another gold and to be here in Paris 2024 is a blessing indeed.”
Reflecting on their 28-7 loss to France in the Gold Medal final, Tuwai noted that they anticipated a tough match, especially with France playing on home turf. The French team had been training in Fiji to prepare for the Olympic Games, engaging in rigorous sessions at the Sigatoka sand dunes and playing friendly matches against Fiji’s training squad at Sigatoka’s Lawaqa Park.
Looking to the future, Tuwai mentioned he doesn’t see himself continuing as a player but expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Fiji on the global stage once more. Regarding his future plans, Tuwai said, “I think I’ll go into coaching, maybe help the old man (Osea Kolinisau) in the future.”