Group-mate Gael Fickou says France have misplaced the most effective prop they’ve ever had after Uini Atonio was compelled to retire with a coronary heart drawback.
Atonio, 35, was taken to an intensive care unit at a hospital in La Rochelle on Tuesday after affected by a “cardiac occasion”.
He’s now in a steady situation.
“He was an unimaginable participant with a unprecedented physique and wonderful qualities,” Fickou informed L’Equipe of 6ft 4in, 23st Atonio., exterior
“He was undoubtedly the most effective French prop we have ever had.”
Atonio pulled out of membership aspect La Rochelle’s match towards Clermont on Sunday after struggling chest pains and withdrew from France’s Six Nations squad the next day, earlier than his admission to hospital on Tuesday.
“I would already seen that he wasn’t feeling nicely throughout his staff’s journey to Clermont,” mentioned Fickou.
“I do know him and located it unusual. He is not the sort to pretend it.
“He is an distinctive participant, however it’s the person I need to pay tribute to most of all.
“In a staff, he is a terrific man, at all times smiling. I’ve so many recollections; I checked out a whole lot of photographs with him this afternoon. I hope there can be extra.
“Uini has left his mark. He most likely would have most well-liked a unique ending, however that is life. Rugby is not everlasting, however friendship is.”
New Zealand-born Atonio gained 68 caps for France, was a part of their 2022 Grand Slam-winning aspect and began all 5 video games of their title-winning Six Nations marketing campaign in 2025.
