Lomu Review
His destructive pace and power changed the game for ever, but behind the fame and ineffable exterior of this gentle giant was a life of chaos and emotional discord
TL;DR
- Jonah Lomu became an All Blacks legend at 19 with his unique combination of size, pace, and power.
- His impact on rugby was so significant that the sport has since seen players bulk up, potentially diminishing his unique advantage today.
- Lomu had a complicated relationship with his Tongan heritage and superstar status, which seemed to overwhelm him.
- His early life included displacement, conflict with his preacher father, and domestic violence, leading him to be kicked out at 15.
- His professional rugby career coincided with the sport's shift to professionalism, bringing financial management challenges.
- Lomu was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder, around the height of his career, which eventually compromised his health.
- His memorial service at Eden Park was reportedly filled with behind-the-scenes tension and discord.