Fiji-born rugby league superstar Jarryd Hayne recently spent two unforgettable weeks in Port Moresby, immersing himself in the pulsating world of Papua New Guinea’s national sport.
In an exclusive interview with Exepreneur, Hayne shared his experiences and his thoughts on sports diplomacy and sports tourism in PNG.
His reflections reveal not only the intensity of the country’s passion for rugby league but also its broader role in uniting communities and fostering regional growth.
“I always knew and felt the passion the people of Papua New Guinea have for rugby league,” Hayne shared. “But spending two weeks in Port Moresby truly opened my eyes to just how deep that love runs. I had the chance to rub shoulders with everyone—from politicians and business entrepreneurs to everyday locals—and one thing was clear: rugby league unites them all. It’s more than just a sport in Papua New Guinea, it’s the heartbeat of the nation, a powerful force that brings people together across all walks of life.”
Rugby league’s place in PNG is unrivaled, widely recognized as the country’s national sport and a vital thread in its social fabric. Studies show that rugby league is more than a game here; with over 10,000 registered senior players and participation embedded in school curriculums, it is life itself—an unparalleled communal language among a diverse population of eight million people speaking 800 languages.
“The Pacific region is witnessing exciting times for rugby league,” Hayne said, pointing to the growing prominence of the Pacific Championships. “More games between Pacific nations mean more competition and stronger, more elevated rugby league across our region. It’s crucial we build on this momentum and continue supporting the game locally—especially in Fiji, where passion and talent abound.”
But the superstar’s visit was not just about rugby. He experienced the stunning natural beauty Papua New Guinea has to offer—from fishing in crystal-clear waters to exploring remote villages and tasting local delicacies like raw king kina. “Tourism is a big winner here with the PNG Chiefs and rugby league events,” Hayne noted. “The whole experience reminded me so much of home in Fiji. PNG has incredible potential to grow its tourism sector, especially leveraging the exposure and opportunities that come through rugby league.”
Hayne’s insights reveals how sport acts as a powerful catalyst in PNG—not only uniting its people but also opening avenues for cultural diplomacy and economic development through sports tourism. With rugby league as its heartbeat, Papua New Guinea stands poised to deepen regional ties and showcase its unique heritage to the wider world.
Hayne is an Australian rugby league superstar known for his electrifying career and athletic versatility. Born in 1988, Hayne burst onto the rugby league scene in 2006 with the Parramatta Eels, immediately making his mark by winning the NRL’s Dally M Rookie of the Year award. A dynamic and skilled player, he quickly rose to prominence, securing the Dally M Medal as the league’s player of the year twice—in 2009 and 2014. His talents earned him international recognition, representing Australia at the 2013 Rugby League World Cup and Fiji in the 2008 and 2017 tournaments, reflecting his dual heritage.
Beyond rugby league, Hayne made an audacious switch in 2015 to American football, playing as a running back for the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL—an uncommon transition that showcased his exceptional athleticism. Though his NFL stint was brief, it broadened his sports legacy.
Returning to rugby league, Hayne also represented Fiji in rugby union sevens and concluded his rugby league career with the Gold Coast Titans and Parramatta Eels by 2018. Throughout his career, Hayne was celebrated for his speed, agility, and playmaking abilities that electrified fans worldwide, making him one of the sport’s most memorable talents.
