NRL 2022: Brisbane Broncos star Tesi Niu rocked by sudden death of father Fanitesi Loto’aniu

Rising Broncos young gun Tesi Niu has been left shattered after revealing his father has tragically passed away.

Rising Brisbane Broncos young gun Tesi Niu has been rocked by the sudden death of his father.

Fanitesi Loto’aniu is believed to have died suddenly this week, leaving his 20-year-old son shattered.

Despite online reports linking Fanitesi’s death to the Tongan tsunami disaster, it is understood he died in Australia.

Niu was very close to his father, who regularly posted photos on social media of himself in supreme physical shape.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Try 14-days free now >

Niu was very close to his father, who regularly posted photos on social media of himself in supreme physical shape.

Niu was not at Broncos training on Thursday as he dealt with the shock death of his father and took to Instagram to post a tribute.

“Lost for words dad,” he wrote.

“I’d never be prepared to say goodbye, especially not now. You’ve taught me so much to help me be who I am. I can’t explain the emotions inside me.

“Don’t know if I’d be where I am today without you, going to miss my personal trainer.

“I know you’re happy where you are with grandma just wish I could say one more goodbye. I love you more than you will ever know dad.”

Niu made another post later on, writing: “Rest easy dad, can’t stop crying.”

Tesi Niu has been shattered by the sudden death of his father Fanitesi. Picture: Getty Images.

Earlier this week, Niu fronted media in Brisbane to pledge his support to Tonga following the tsunami which has devastated the pacific island.

Niu spoke on Tuesday about his parents hailing from Tonga and the pain his father was experiencing, just days before his sudden death.

“Watching all the videos on social media was heartbreaking,” he said.

Niu was very close with his father Fanitesim sharing the tragic news on his Instagram.

“Seeing everyone scatter, water running through, you get emotional. It’s devastating. Thoughts and prayers are with them.

“Both my mum and dad are from Tonga. It’s sad to see them sad, knowing their families are struggling right now.

“All of my mum’s family is there, my aunties and stuff. We’re still not sure, just hoping they’re all good.

“It’s tough not knowing if they’re all right, especially seeing my mum and dad stressing.”

Originally published as NRL 2022: Brisbane Broncos star Tesi Niu rocked by sudden death of father Fanitesi Loto’aniu