Jordan Petaia, a well-known Australian talent in the world of rugby, has made a bold decision that could potentially redefine his sporting career. At the age of 24, he decided to swap the rugby fields to explore the opportunities offered by the NFL in the United States.
An unexpected turn towards the NFL
After accumulating 31 caps with the Wallabies and distinguishing himself as a center for the Queensland Reds in Super Rugby, Petaia is now venturing into a new discipline: American football. This change of direction represents a dream that he shared with his father, who passed away in 2020. Announced this Tuesday, this choice marks a courageous step in the journey of the Australian athlete.
Petaia recently announced his commitment to the NFL International Program (IPP), following the trajectory of Jordan Mailata, another Australian who established himself as a key member of the Philadelphia Eagles. “Making this decision was not easy and required careful consideration, but I am deeply grateful for this unique opportunity,” he shared on social media. Indeed, after a 2024 season marked by a shoulder injury, launching him into this new adventure seems to bring him a breath of fresh air.
Known for being the youngest Australian to play in a World Cup in 2019, at the age of 19, Petaia wishes to honor the memory of his father through this challenge. “My father would have encouraged me not to let this chance slip away; I couldn’t ignore this dream,” he told Sydney Morning Herald. Thus, a chapter closes for Petaia, after seven rich seasons with the Queensland Reds, surrounded by the unwavering support of Australian fans.
