NRL Legend Daniel Tupou Announces Retirement After Fourth Grand Final Win
Sydney Roosters winger Daniel Tupou has announced his retirement from the NRL, ending a 15-year career that saw him win four premierships and become one of the club's all-time greats. Tupou, 35, made the announcement after helping his team secure a grand final victory against Newcastle on Sunday.
Daniel Tupou, a four-time NRL grand final winner with the Sydney Roosters, has announced his retirement from the sport, ending a remarkable 15-year career. Tupou, 35, made the announcement after helping his team secure a grand final victory against Newcastle on Sunday.
Tupou becomes the sixth player in Roosters history to win four premierships with the club, a testament to his enduring impact on the team. Throughout his 307-game career, he scored 198 tries, ranking third in premiership history for most tries scored.
Tributes from Coach Trent Robinson
Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson paid tribute to Tupou, describing him as one of the club's all-time greats.
"When you look at what Daniel Tupou has achieved over 15 seasons, he will stand as one of the greats," Robinson said in a statement.
"But those numbers only tell part of the story of Toops and what he means to this club."
"Since he made his debut, he has represented what we want a Rooster to be. He has been incredibly consistent, selfless and dependable, and whenever there has been a big moment or a tough moment, he has been present."
"Toops revolutionised the aerial game at the Sydney Roosters and became the greatest high-ball specialist of all time."
Tupou's departure comes as the Roosters prepare for a significant off-season overhaul, with several key players set to leave the club. However, according to Robinson, none of them have had the same level of impact as Tupou.
Tupou's achievements include four premierships (2013, 2018, 2019, 2026), three World Club Challenges, and Test matches for both Tonga and Australia. He was also part of the Tongan side that defeated Australia in 2019.
Between 2014 and 2022, Tupou played 10 times for NSW at State of Origin level.
"We love Toops, we're incredibly proud of him, and his name will always hold a very special place in the history of the Sydney Roosters," Robinson said.
Tupou retires as the greatest try-scorer in Roosters history, having surpassed Anthony Minichiello in 2023.