In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the rugby universe, Wallabies legend Michael Hooper has announced his return to professional rugby at the age of 33. The iconic flanker, who seemingly hung up his boots for good last year, revealed he has agreed to a short-term playing stint with Japanese club Toyota Verblitz.
Hooper’s bombshell decision comes after receiving an unexpected call from rugby mastermind and Toyota’s director of rugby Steve Hansen. The World Cup-winning coach reached out to the veteran Australian following an untimely injury to Springboks star Pieter-Steph du Toit, opening the door for a truly unbelievable comeback story.
Familiar Territory for Hooper
Remarkably, this will mark a reunion between Hooper and Toyota Verblitz, the very same club he enjoyed a rejuvenating sabbatical with during the 2021 Japanese Top League season. Reflecting on his previous stint, the Wallabies great shared:
“It’s a great club, really good people and competitive. There wasn’t too many places I would have really been keen to play, and this was right up there because I had such a fond memory from being up there a few years back.”
Michael Hooper on his time with Toyota Verblitz
The flanker legend expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity presented by Hansen, acknowledging the serendipitous nature of this unexpected final chapter in his illustrious career. Under Hansen’s guidance, Hooper will look to help steer Toyota’s ship back on course amidst a turbulent League One campaign.
Preparing for the Challenge Ahead
While Hooper’s decision has conjured up memories of George Smith’s own against-the-odds Wallabies return to face the British & Irish Lions in 2013, the 33-year-old remains laser-focused on the task at hand. With Fraser McReight now firmly entrenched as Australia’s premier openside flanker, Hooper’s ambitions appear more personal than representative.
In preparation for his Japanese renaissance, the Wallabies icon is zeroing in on adding size and strength to handle the rigors of top-flight rugby once more. Hooper candidly admitted:
“When I finished up with sevens, it was very much a case of, ‘OK, well, I’m needing a break.’ I don’t know what it’s going to look like. I don’t know if that’s taking the field again. If I don’t take the field again, I’m OK with that. But there is still a little part of me that would like to see if I could mix it again.”
Michael Hooper on his mindset post-Olympics
A Legend’s Last Dance?
As the rugby realm collectively holds its breath, one cannot help but marvel at the sheer audacity and courage of Michael Hooper’s decision. To willingly re-enter the furnace of professional rugby, after achieving nearly every accolade imaginable, is a testament to the man’s unbreakable spirit and unwavering love for the game.
Whether this proves to be a fleeting cameo or the start of an astonishing final act, one thing is certain: Michael Hooper’s legacy as a Wallabies legend is already set in stone. Now, he embarks on a journey to prove that even at 33, he still has the burning desire to compete at the highest level.
As Hooper dons the red and black of Toyota Verblitz once more, rugby fans worldwide will be watching with bated breath, eager to witness the return of one of the sport’s true icons. In a career defined by relentless pursuit and unwavering determination, this may just be Michael Hooper’s greatest challenge yet.
