Jobaaj Stories
Justin Olam Retires: A Rugby League Legend Bids Farewell
Papua New Guinea international and NRL star Justin Olam has announced his retirement from rugby league, ending a remarkable career cut short by a persistent knee injury. The news, announced on March 28th, 2025, saddened fans and the rugby league community alike, but Olam's legacy extends far beyond the playing field.
A Career Defined by Resilience
Olam's journey is one of inspiring resilience. From humble beginnings in a remote PNG village, where he trained with a sand-filled water bottle, he rose to become a premiership winner with the Melbourne Storm (2020) and the Dally M Centre of the Year (2021). His 117 NRL games—104 with the Storm and 13 with the Wests Tigers—were a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. He was also the first player to graduate from the PNG Hunters Queensland Cup side to the NRL, paving the way for future generations of Pacific Island players.
The Knee Injury and Retirement
A knee injury suffered in Round 18 of the 2024 season proved insurmountable, despite surgery and extensive rehabilitation. After consulting with medical professionals, the 31-year-old made the difficult decision to retire. "I came here hoping just to play one game, and I’ve been blessed a hundred times over," Olam said in a heartfelt statement. "Hopefully, I can inspire a young kid...to chase their dreams." His retirement also dashed hopes of him playing for the incoming Papua New Guinea NRL franchise.
Tributes and Legacy
Tributes poured in from across the rugby league world, with Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall calling Olam "one of the greatest, if not the greatest, players to represent PNG." The Tigers will honor Olam with tributes at upcoming games. His legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics; he embodied the spirit of determination and served as a role model for aspiring athletes in PNG and beyond. He leaves a lasting impact on the game, remembered not only for his skill but also his humility and unwavering faith.
Looking Ahead
While Olam's playing days are over, his story continues to inspire. His journey serves as a powerful testament to the pursuit of dreams, the importance of resilience, and the profound impact one individual can have. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to resonate within the rugby league community for years to come.
