Taniela Tupou, born on May 10, 1996, in Nelspruit, South Africa, is a professional rugby union player who has gained recognition for his powerful presence as a tighthead prop. Currently playing for the Melbourne Rebels in the Super Rugby Pacific and representing the Australian national team, Tupou has earned a reputation as one of the most formidable forwards in the sport.
Taniela Tupou Early Life and Background
Tupou's rugby journey began in Tonga, where he showcased his talents at a young age. He moved to New Zealand for his education and attended Sacred Heart College in Auckland. It was during his time there that he gained national attention, particularly in 2014 when he scored three tries in a single match against Kelston Boys High School. This performance not only earned him the nickname "Tongan Thor" but also made him an internet sensation.
Despite offers from various rugby clubs around the world, Tupou's ambition to represent Australia led him to move to Brisbane, where his brother Criff resided. His desire to play for the Wallabies ultimately influenced his decision to pursue a career in Australian rugby.
Professional Career
Queensland Reds
Tupou joined the Queensland Reds in 2015, making his debut for the team in 2016. His impact was immediate; he quickly established himself as a key player within the squad. Over the years, he has been recognized for his powerful scrummaging ability and dynamic ball-carrying skills. Throughout his time with the Reds, he consistently contributed to the team's performance, earning accolades such as the Pilecki Medal for Queensland’s players’ player of the year in both 2020 and 2021.
Move to Melbourne Rebels
In 2023, Tupou signed with the Melbourne Rebels after spending several successful seasons with the Reds. His move was part of a broader transition within Australian rugby, as clubs sought to strengthen their rosters amidst financial challenges faced by some franchises.
International Career
Tupou's international career began when he made his debut for Australia against Scotland on November 24, 2017. Since then, he has become a regular member of the Wallabies squad, participating in significant tournaments including the Rugby World Cup. He played a crucial role in Australia’s campaigns during both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.
His physicality and skill set have made him an essential player for Australia, contributing not only in scrums but also in open play with impressive runs and offloads. In 2021, he gained attention for a remarkable no-look pass during a match against South Africa that showcased his unique skill set.
Playing Style
Standing at approximately 1.84 meters (6 feet) and weighing around 148 kg (326 lbs), Tupou is known for his combination of size and agility. His ability to dominate in scrums while also being effective with ball-in-hand makes him a dual threat on the field. His work ethic and determination have earned him respect among teammates and opponents alike.
Recent Developments
As of late 2023, Tupou's future has been a topic of speculation as he received interest from European clubs, including Leinster. Despite this interest, he opted to remain in Australia with the Rebels amid ongoing discussions about contract renewals and potential moves within Super Rugby.
Taniela Tupou Personal Life
Off the field, Taniela Tupou is known for his engaging personality and commitment to community initiatives. He often participates in charity events and youth programs aimed at promoting rugby among younger generations.
Taniela Tupou's journey from Tonga to becoming an international rugby star exemplifies dedication and passion for the sport. As he continues to compete at high levels both domestically and internationally, he remains one of Australia's most exciting rugby talents.
