Revealed: The heartbreaking reason why French rugby star has been left in intensive care and forced into immediate retirement
Hulking France prop Uini Atonio is in a stable condition in intensive care but has retired from rugby with immediate effect after suffering a cardiac event.At six foot, five inches and nearly 24 stone, Atonio is one of the biggest men in international rugby. He was withdrawn from his country’s 2026 Six Nations squad on Monday.The 35-year-old’s club La Rochelle confirmed on Wednesday morning the reason why.‘Uini Atonio was admitted yesterday to the La Rochelle Hospital Center following a suspected heart problem,’ read a statement from the TOP14 side.‘Medical examinations confirmed a cardiac event. His condition is now stable and he remains in intensive care under observation.‘Following his hospitalisation, Uini will have to undergo a long period of recovery.‘It is now established that he will not be able to continue his playing career. Uini Antonio won 68 caps for France but has been forced into immediate retirement‘Uini holds a special place in the history and heart of our club.‘This news deeply saddens us. The entire club wishes to express its unwavering and total support to him and his family during this difficult time.’At the age of 35, Atonio was nearing the end of his rugby career but he remained a key figure for both club and country.He won 68 caps for France after being born in New Zealand.Atonio joined La Rochelle in 2011 when they were in French rugby’s second division. He helped the club currently coached by former Ireland No 10 Ronan O’Gara to two European titles as part of a glittering career.Atonio was a Six Nations grand slam winner with France in 2022 and was also part of the team that won last season’s title.
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Revealed: The heartbreaking reason why French rugby star has been left in intensive care and forced into immediate retirement
