Former Wallabies wunderkind James O’Connor leaving Australia to play overseas

He was the second youngest player ever to earn a cap for the Wallabies, and now the former wunderkind is leaving to play overseas.

James O'Connor is leaving Australia to play rugby overseas. Picture: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

Former Wallabies star James O’Connor is parting ways with the Queensland Reds as a “better man” to continue his club career overseas.

O’Connor, 34, linked with the Reds for a second time in July 2019, with the high point of his five-year stint coming in 2021 when he captained Queensland to the Super Rugby AU premiership.

“These last five years have been the highlight of my rugby career,” said O’Connor, who made 68 appearances for the Reds as well as 64 for the Wallabies.

“I’m so proud of where we have gotten to as a group. Although there’s been highs and lows, the consistency, and just the love at this club, has been so incredible to be a part of.

“I’m departing Queensland a better player, leader and man, and I’m so grateful to have been able to play for this team, my home.”

While the veteran flyhalf is yet to reveal his planed destination, it’s expected he will play in either Japan or in the United States’ Major League Rugby competition, where former Wallabies Matt Giteau and Adam Ashley-Cooper have also had stints.

After five years of first-class service, James O'Connor will depart Australia, opting to pursue overseas opportunities.

Thank you, James 🐨

MORE: https://t.co/76eUGCb69Gpic.twitter.com/B3zWgfmS5f

— Queensland Reds (@Reds_Rugby) September 12, 2024

Reds coach Les Kiss said Queensland had been keen to retain O’Connor’s services despite a hamstring injury ruining his 2024 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

“While James encountered a challenging season that saw injury limit his ability to contribute on the field, he dedicated himself to improving the team in any way he could,” said Kiss, who was appointed Queensland coach in July last year.

“His immense experience and willingness to share his experiences has played a pivotal role in the development of the Reds, most notably with our young flyhalves Tom Lynagh and Harry McLaughlin-Phillips.

“They’ll undoubtedly reflect positively on the time they were able to spend with him, finetuning their game and understanding the mental side of the playmakers’ role, and for that we’re indebted to James.

“We did make him an offer to stay and continue at the Reds and will be sad to see him go, but we respect the decision he and (partner) Bridget have made and wish them all the very best.

“I have no doubt James will return to give back to the Queensland rugby community in coming years in some capacity, and that’s something we can all look forward to.”

O’Connor said the Reds “couldn’t be in better hands”.

“Les and the other coaches are easily the most cohesive group I have ever worked with and I’m thankful I got to be a part of it this year,” he said.

“I have no doubt that there’s a lot of success to come and I’ll be watching from abroad with deep gratitude. Thanks for everything Queensland. It’s been a dream come true.”