David Fifita reveals why he backtracked on deal to join the Roosters

Titans star David Fifita has spoken for the first time since his sensational backflip on the Roosters, saying he needs to give first-year coach Des Hasler a chance.

(L-R) David Fifita and Des Hasler.

Gold Coast forward David Fifita has finally broken his silence over a stunning backflip on the Sydney Roosters, declaring, “I needed to give Des a chance.”

Fifita has remained silent since controversially reneging on the Roosters a fortnight ago to trigger a two-year extension with the Titans.

He initially rejected an offer from Penrith to sign a four-year deal at Bondi worth $3.3m, only to sensational withdraw and remain at Gold Coast.

Fifita said family – and a desire to learn and grow under Titans coach Des Hasler – was the catalyst behind his decision to re-sign.

Insiders claim Hasler, aware of Fifita’s immense talent, pushes the rampaging forward hard at training on the field.

“I need to give Des a chance – he’s different, but he’s a good different,” Fifita said.

“And I think I need that going forward.

“As tough as the past couple of weeks have been, I have come to a decision and I’m not looking back.

(L-R) David Fifita and Des Hasler.

“That’s the only thing that matters for the boys, the coaching staff and Des. I’m happy that I’m here.

“I had to make a decision and the right decision and I truly believe I did make the right decision, you know?

“I love the boys, the club and the area.”

Fifita attracted condemnation for his handling of the contract drama.

But the giant forward, a chance to be named in the Queensland side for State of Origin I, is unconcerned at the criticism.

“For myself, being a Queensland boy, I just feel I needed to be around my family and I needed to look after them and look after what is best for me,” he told the Titans website.

“It’s been a big couple of weeks for myself and my close ones that know me.

“It does take a toll on you mentally and physically.

“But I have made my decision now and I’m here and looking forward to this weekend’s game (against Brisbane), finishing off the year – where we want to be – and then a couple more years after that.”

Fifita is now under contract at Robina until the end of 2027.

And he will rip in on Sunday when Gold Coast play before 40,000 fans against Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium.

When in the mood, Fifita is the most damaging forward in rugby league.

“I’m really excited about what myself and the boys can do. With this group we have here, we can do a lot,” he said.

Originally published as David Fifita reveals why he backtracked on deal to join the Roosters