Tragedy in Japan. 26-year-old rugby player dies suddenly
Fijian rugby player Saimoni Vunilagi has passed away at the age of 26 after suffering a severe heatstroke during a training session with Japanese club Kyushu KV. The tragedy unfolded amidst extreme heat across the country.
According to the team, Vunilagi began to feel unwell following Monday's training. He exhibited symptoms of acute heatstroke and was rushed to a hospital in Fukuoka. Despite receiving medical attention, the rugby player died on Friday morning.
The players, staff, and everyone in the team are devastated by this sudden news. We humbly pray for the repose of his soul and extend our deepest condolences to his family, the club's statement reads.
Vunilagi played as a lock but was also capable of playing in the back row. Standing 1.96 meters tall and weighing 117 kilograms, he received his rugby education in Japan and began his professional career in 2023 with first-division side Tokyo Sungoliath. At the end of June, he joined Kyushu KV.
It should be noted that on Monday, August 3, the air temperature in Fukuoka reached 35 degrees Celsius. The heatwave in Japan has already resulted in dozens of deaths: according to local authorities, from July 20 to 26 alone, 45 people have died due to its effects.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
