French rugby player Uini Atonio forced to retire after heart attack

Eva Osborne

French prop Uini Atonio has suffered a heart attack and will not play rugby again, his club La Rochelle has announced.

The rugby club said the 35-year-old had been hospitalised on Tuesday following a suspected heart problem, and medical examinations confirmed a "cardiac event".

His condition is now stable, and he remains under observation in intensive care, but he will not be able to continue playing rugby.

La Rochelle offered support for Atonio and his family, and said he holds a special place in the history of the club.

In a statement released on Wednesday morning, La Rochelle said: "Uini Atonio was admitted yesterday to the La Rochelle Hospital Center following a suspected heart problem. Medical examinations confirmed a cardiac event.

"His condition is now stable and he remains under observation in intensive care.

"Following his hospitalisation, Uini will have to undergo a long period of recovery. It is now established that he will not be able to continue his playing career.

"Uini holds a special place in the history and in the heart of our Club. This news deeply affects us. The entire Club wishes to express its full and unwavering support to him and his family during this difficult time."

Atonio was only withdrawn from Fabien Galthie’s squad to play Ireland in the Six Nations on Monday, according to the Irish Examiner.

Atonio has won 68 caps for France since his debut in 2014, and he was part of the France team that won a Six Nations grand slam in 2022.