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Inside Latrell Mitchell’s tumultuous year: Racism stands, radio rant, restaurant stand-off, Origin recall

Few players can create headline moments like South Sydney superstar Latrell Mitchell and 2024 has certainly been one of his most tumultuous. See the full timeline here.

Latrell Mitchell has had a turbulent 2024.
Latrell Mitchell has had a turbulent 2024.

When you’re Latrell Mitchell, it’s never just about the football.

The South Sydney superstar is a staunch advocate for Indigenous causes, never afraid to call out and condone racism, or go into bat for those he cares for.

He takes on more than just about any other NRL player.

This year alone, Mitchell flew to Moree with NSW Premier Chris Minns to launch a program aimed at helping at-risk teenagers. He went head to head with Anthony Mundine over the Ezra Mam-Spencer Leniu racism saga, and was then himself the subject of vile slurs during a game.

Putting himself out there makes him a target, any time he takes a misstep.

He was reprimanded for swearing five times in 30 seconds in a post-match radio interview and made headlines when he confronted NRL 360 host Braith Anasta at a flash Sydney restaurant over his perceived personal attacks.

Mitchell is a polarising character.

Latrell Mitchell has had a turbulent 2024.
Latrell Mitchell has had a turbulent 2024.

Supremely talented on the rugby league field, he comes in for criticism when his performances don’t measure up to the lofty expectations.

He got himself suspended for an ugly incident and, while sidelined, Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou was sacked as Souths’ season collapsed.

At his best, he is an Origin saviour and matchwinner.

As always, Mitchell will never be one to shy away from creating headlines and 2024 has been no different.

Originally published as Inside Latrell Mitchell’s tumultuous year: Racism stands, radio rant, restaurant stand-off, Origin recall

Original URL: https://www.themercury.com.au/sport/nrl/inside-latrell-mitchells-tumultuous-year-racism-stands-radio-rant-restaurant-standoff-origin-recall/news-story/b0ae0e068d3976c457bb6b03d3837ed4