Atonio Retires from Career Following Heart Attack Incident
Uini Atonio, the renowned French rugby player, has announced his retirement following a serious heart attack incident. This information was confirmed by his club, Stade Rochelais, on Wednesday. Atonio, 35, was emergency admitted to the Centre Hospitalier de La Rochelle due to a cardiac issue on Tuesday.
Medical examinations revealed that Atonio indeed suffered a heart attack. Fortunately, his current condition is stable, and he remains under intensive care. Despite these positive updates, his club has made it clear that he will not be able to continue his professional rugby career.
Impact on Stade Rochelais and French Rugby
Atonio’s departure marks a significant loss for both Stade Rochelais and the French national team. He has held an essential role in the squad, notably contributing during Fabien Galthié’s initial tenure as head coach. With 68 international caps, Atonio established himself as a key player over the years.
After recovering from a prior hamstring injury, he returned to competitive rugby in December. Just before this incident, Atonio was part of the selection of 42 players preparing to face Ireland in the upcoming Six Nations Tournament.
A Legacy of Achievements
- Joined Stade Rochelais in 2011 after starting in Pro D2
- Won the European Cup twice in 2022 and 2023
- Played a pivotal role in the Grand Slam 2022 and the 2025 Tournament victory
Atonio’s relationship with the French national team has been significant. He even reconsidered his decision to retire from international duty after the 2023 World Cup. As a testament to his importance, Stade Rochelais noted that he holds a “special place in the history and heart of our club.”
Looking Ahead
While Uini Atonio’s rugby career may have come to an abrupt end, his future remains promising. After a period of recovery, he could explore opportunities within the sport, possibly in coaching roles, given his experience and dedication.
