The rugby world has rallied around Wallabies flanker Lukhan Tui after he was involved in a shocking confrontation with a fan following Australia’s loss to the Pumas on the Gold Coast on Saturday night.
Standing with family and teammates in the stands following the 23-19 loss, Tui was approached by an aggressive fan who allegedly pushed his younger sister and told the 21-year-old to “play with more heart” before he began to grapple with him.
The fan was eventually frog marched up the stand by another spectator before police arrived, while Tui and his family were led down the tunnel by teammates.
Fiji winger Nemani Nadolo was one of the first in the rugby world to throw his support behind the young player.
Everyone giving Lukan Tui a hard time. U muppets need to réalisé he lost his old man a few days before.. the fact he played n did his best under pressure for the wallabies. It speaks volume of his character…they lost so what!… you u my hero brus!! @LukhanTui
— nemzy (@nemani_nadolo) September 15, 2018
The Wallabies wore black armbands for the match in memory of Tui’s stepfather, who had died earlier in the week.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika told reporters Tui was distraught when he entered the change rooms and told his teammates he would be stepping away from the game. Cheika confirmed Sunday morning, Tui would not be travelling to South Africa and was unlikely to play again this year.
Will Genia and Alex Mafi were quick to jump on Instagram following the game to show their support for their teammate.
Karmichael Hunt also showed his support on twitter.
My guy here is a super kid, does all that he can for his family, friends and teammates. I’m proud of him for playing tonight, I’m sure it would have been tough after the week he has had. Love you @LukhanTui We got you my brother ✊🏾💯❤️ https://t.co/Xar8ykpnsY
— Karmichael Hunt (@karmichaelhunt) September 15, 2018
The Wallabies will fly out to South Africa this weekend as they prepare to take on the Springboks who shocked the All Blacks in Wellington to win 36-34.