Former Rugby League Star Targeted in Early Morning Shooting
Matt Utai, a celebrated former National Rugby League star, is recovering in hospital after surviving a brazen drive-by shooting outside his family home in Sydney. The 44-year-old, who clinched the NRL title with Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in 2004, was ambushed on his driveway in Greenacre, a western suburb of Sydney, at approximately 6am on Tuesday morning.
Details of the Attack and Police Investigation
Utai had just left his home and was heading to his vehicle for work when an SUV pulled up and unleashed multiple gunshots. The vehicle was later discovered burnt out in a neighboring suburb, intensifying the mystery surrounding the incident. Police Superintendent Rodney Hart labeled the event a targeted ambush, stating, "This was definitely targeted. Whether the victim was the intended target or it was somebody that he knows or associates with or is related to will all form part of the investigation."
Utai sustained two gunshot wounds—one to his upper shoulder and another to his lower leg. Paramedics quickly stabilized him at the scene before transporting him to a hospital in serious but stable condition, where he underwent emergency surgery. Hart noted that while Utai is known to police for minor traffic infractions, he has no criminal history and is not believed to be involved in illicit activities.
Community Reaction and Support from Fellow Players
A neighbor recounted being awakened by the sound of gunfire, describing the chaotic scene: "I just heard like about four, five shots, scream, and... a car speeding so quick. It just happened so quick. By the time I looked out the window, about three or four minutes later, [I saw] just cops and ambulances coming down my street."
Former teammates expressed shock and solidarity. Reni Matua, who played alongside Utai for the Bulldogs, reported that Utai is breathing on his own and described his condition as critical but stable. Beau Ryan and Aaron Woods, who shared the field with Utai at Wests Tigers, learned of the shooting during a live radio broadcast. Ryan emotionally reflected, "It's still very raw... I can only imagine what Matt's family [are feeling], he's got kids, he's got a lot of family there. He's got a lot of ex-teammates... we are praying and hopefully he makes a recovery, it's tough times." Woods added, "I still talk to him a lot in this day and age, so it's actually rocked me a little bit."
Utai's Rugby Legacy and International Career
Matt Utai, who retired from professional rugby in 2013, was a standout player named the 2002 Dally M Rookie of the Year. His career included representing both New Zealand and Samoa at the international level, cementing his status as a respected figure in the sport. The shooting has sent shockwaves through the rugby community, with fans and colleagues rallying for his swift recovery.
