Wallabies fly half Carter Gordon will join the Gold Coast Titans in 2025

A second Wallabies star has opted to turn his back on rugby and join the NRL after the collapse of the Melbourne Rebels.

One of the Melbourne Rebels left without a job has turned his back on rugby and will join the Gold Coast Titans in 2025, becoming the second member of the Wallabies squad to join the NRL.

Carter Gordon was the starting No.10 for the Wallabies at the disastrous 2023 World Cup after a surprise call-up from former coach Eddie Jones but is switching to rugby league.

The 23-year-old played in the Rebels’ final game last weekend, with the Super Rugby club shuttered by Rugby Australia, forcing players to seek contracts elsewhere.

Gordon cited the “direction rugby league was taking” for his decision to join the Titans on a two-year deal, having played eight times for the Wallabies since making his international debut against the Springboks in 2023.

“I’m excited with the direction that rugby league is taking and the positive feeling around the game,” Gordon said.

“At 23, I feel like I had to take this opportunity now.

“I’m under no illusions and understand that this will be a massive challenge.

Carter commits ✍🏽https://t.co/m3SlBjTrO4

— Gold Coast Titans (@GCTitans) June 12, 2024

“I was really impressed with the Titans and the professionalism they displayed in our meetings.

“I’ve loved my time with rugby as it’s given me the opportunity to represent my country, which I’ll always appreciate.”

Gordon’s move comes after Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase signed with the Sydney Roosters for the 2025 season and is another hammer blow for Australian rugby.

Titans coach Des Hasler said Gordon was a player who “backs himself” and was keen to get be involved with him.

“Carter has competed well in rugby, representing his country and playing at the World Cup,” Hasler said.

“What has impressed me is his attitude to test himself and take on the challenge of switching to a new code.

“He’s a skilful player who backs himself.”

Gordon will join the Titans for the 2025 and 2026 NRL seasons.

Originally published as Wallabies fly half Carter Gordon will join the Gold Coast Titans in 2025