Australian rugby star James O’Connor has finally revealed how his career derailed when the expectations were high. Coming through and making his Australia debut at only 18, James’s talent spoke for itself, and many fans saw the future of Australian rugby in him.
His fame rose with each game, and his versatility was a massive asset, impressing many. Unfortunately, as a young, famous player, O’Connor lost his gear, and his discipline became questionable.
He even missed training back in 2023 after spending a night out, partying with friends. With such behaviour, O’Connor lost his gear, his fans turned on him, and he lost his form.
The future of Australian rugby is in jeopardy, with injuries also playing a big part. His career derailed, and O’Connor had to find his feet again; fortunately, he found himself.
JAMES O’CONNOR EXPLAINS WHAT DERAILED HIS CAREER
Speaking with the Rugby Journal, James O’Connor revealed how he lost himself and also how injuries and moves affected him.
“I didn’t have control, I was still a kid”, O’Connor said, speaking about the behaviour he had early in his career. “I had my first proper injury, I lacerated my liver in a tackle, I just got hit in my ribs, and my ribs didn’t break, they just put pressure on my liver and split it open on the inside,” he said, speaking of his first injury.
“I thought I knew the whole game. I’d played for the Wallabies, I’d been at the World Cup, and yet I didn’t know that eighty per cent of my game was flawed. You grow an ego, and you start chasing the wrong things, all the wrong things,” he opened up about how ego affected him.
JAMES O’CONNOR’S STORY INSPIRE FANS
After James O’Connor revealed how his career derailed, his testimony inspired many people, and they shared their opinions.
@Nick Slater “We throw cash and spotlight at 20-year-olds and expect fully formed adults in return. JOC has evolved into a great man and role model 🙌🏼”
@Justin Stewart “Good on you for being honest and owning your mistakes. Look at you today, great player and leader. I saw you last year training with Crusaders and seeing the work you were doing with Taha and Rivez, all 3 of you kicking after others were off the training field. What a great work ethic and skill set you have to share with them. You were one of the big cogs in the 2025 championship-winning team that helped get @crusadersrugbyteam their 15th title, then moved up to the northern hemisphere to ply your trade there. Go down as one of the Aussie great JOC, cheers @jamesoconnor832 👏”
@Leanne Blyth “Love the way you are, James. You have grown into an amazing young man who gives to all those around you. The many choices in life lead you down different paths. You live, you learn. You choose the next road with more life skills. Look forward to your journey down the next road. 🥰”