Uini Atonio receives intensive care treatment following cardiac event
French prop Uini Atonio is currently receiving treatment in intensive care at La Rochelle Hospital following a cardiac event, reports BritPanorama.
The 35-year-old, who has earned 68 caps for Les Bleus and was selected for France’s upcoming Six Nations campaign, has been removed from the national squad.
In a concerning update, La Rochelle confirmed that Atonio “was admitted yesterday to the La Rochelle Hospital Center following a suspected heart problem.” Medical examinations confirmed a cardiac event, but his condition is now stable, and he remains under observation.
La Rochelle announced that Atonio will face a lengthy rehabilitation period, effectively bringing a sudden end to his professional playing career that has spanned over a decade. “It is now established that he will not be able to continue his playing career,” the statement read.
The club also expressed their sorrow regarding Atonio’s situation, stating, “Uini holds a special place in the history and in the heart of our club.” They added, “This news deeply saddens us,” reflecting the profound impact he has made during his time at La Rochelle.
Offering their support during this challenging period, the club stated, “The entire club wishes to express its unwavering and total support to him and his family during this difficult time.” Atonio, originally from New Zealand, previously represented Samoa at the Under-20 level before relocating to France in 2011.
Since then, he became a key player for La Rochelle, helping them secure promotion from the second tier and contributing significantly to their subsequent Top 14 and Champions Cup campaigns under coach Ronan O’Gara. France is set to commence their Six Nations title defence against Ireland on February 5.
As the rugby community reflects on Atonio’s legacy, his abrupt departure serves as a stark reminder of the physical toll faced by athletes—and the unpredictable nature of sport itself. In moments like these, the line between valor on the pitch and vulnerability off it becomes all the more pronounced.
