Kamikamica’s Retirement Announcement
Tui Kamikamica, a prominent player for the Melbourne Storm and captain of Fiji, has announced his immediate retirement from professional rugby league on medical grounds. The decision follows a stroke he experienced in March, which has prevented him from playing since.
Kamikamica was a key member of the Storm’s grand final team in 2025. He concludes his career with 142 NRL appearances for the Melbourne Storm and 23 Test matches for Fiji, a team he proudly captained.
Reflecting on his career, Kamikamica expressed pride in his achievements, stating, “I’m incredibly proud of everything I’ve been able to achieve in the game, representing Storm and captaining my country.” He added that playing for the Storm and captaining Fiji are memories he will cherish forever.
A Decade with Melbourne Storm and Fijian Leadership
Kamikamica’s journey with the Melbourne Storm spanned a decade, during which he became a significant figure within the club. He joined the Storm through the Sunshine Coast Falcons in 2016 and made his debut in 2017. He was part of the grand final teams in 2017, 2020, 2024, and 2025, and was a valued member of both the 2017 and 2020 premiership squads.
His influence extended beyond his on-field performance; he joined the club’s Leadership Group in 2025 and was inducted as Storm Life Member #44. Storm CEO Justin Rodski praised Kamikamica, stating, “Tui has given an enormous amount to Melbourne Storm over the past decade and leaves the club with the respect and admiration of everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside him.” Rodski further highlighted Kamikamica’s contribution to the premiership teams, his leadership within the playing group, and his commitment to representing Fiji as testaments to his character.
Kamikamica’s international career saw him captain Fiji since 2023, making 23 international appearances. He had hoped to lead Fiji in the Rugby League World Cup 2026. Fellow Fijian players, including Viliame Kikau, acknowledged Kamikamica’s leadership, noting that he leads by example and is one of the few players in the team who were born and raised in Fiji.
Impact of the Stroke and Future Outlook
Kamikamica’s last game was on March 28, when the Storm played against the North Queensland Cowboys. Two days later, he suffered a stroke. He received treatment at Royal Melbourne Hospital and was discharged a week later. The 32-year-old prop’s future in the sport had been uncertain since the incident.
The news of his stroke came as a shock to many, including his teammates. Sunia Turuva and Jahream Bula, both Fiji backs, mentioned that the Bati players remained in close contact and were surprised by the news. Bula described Kamikamica as a role model for younger players, noting his professionalism and dedication to his physical well-being.
Despite his retirement, Kamikamica expressed gratitude to the Melbourne Storm, his teammates, coaches, and staff for their support throughout his career. He stated, “Melbourne will always be a special place for me and my family and I’m looking forward to my next chapter in life.” The Melbourne Storm is currently in 11th place on the NRL ladder and will miss the finals for only the second time in Craig Bellamy’s coaching career. They are scheduled to play Penrith on Thursday night.
Source: nine.com.au
