France prop Uini Atonio retires after suffering cardiac arrest
Teammates have paid tribute to Uini Atonio after the France prop suffered a cardiac arrest and retired immediately.
Teammates of Uini Atonio have expressed their sadness after the France rugby union prop suffered a cardiac arrest.
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The 35-year-old has retired from playing with immediate effect following the medical emergency.
The news has deeply affected those around him, with French national team forwards coach William Servat saying he was shaken by what had happened.
Servat added that “in moments like this, rugby isn’t important,” reflecting the emotional impact of the situation beyond the sport itself.
Atonio has been a major figure in French rugby, and the sudden end to his career has prompted an outpouring of support from teammates and the wider rugby community.