Bundee Aki was a famous rugby union player who had a significant impact on the sport in New Zealand and internationally for Ireland.
He plays as a centre forward for Connacht in the United Rugby Championship and the Ireland national team.
Aki’s move to Connacht in 2014 was a pivotal moment in his career, leading to a successful period that included winning the Pro12 in 2016.
After completing his residency, he became eligible to play for Ireland and made his senior international debut in 2017.
Over the years, Aki has become renowned for his powerful running, solid defending and pivotal role in Ireland’s midfield.
File
- – Full name: Fua Leiofi Bundellu Aki
- – Nickname: Bundee
- – Date of birth: April 7, 1990
- – Age: 34 years old
- – Gender: Male
- – Place of birth: Auckland, New Zealand
- – Nationality: New Zealand, Ireland
- – Occupation: Rugby union player
- – Height: 178 cm
- – Parents: Hercules Aki, Sautia Aki
- – Siblings: Five siblings (second child in a family of six siblings)
- – Spouse: Kayla Aki
- – Children: Armani-Jade, Adrianna, Ailbhe Lasela Ali’itasi, Andronicus Junior Papamau
- – Relationship status: Married
- – Religion: None
- – Ethnicity: Samoan
- – Net worth: $5 million
Early life and education
Bundee Aki, now 34, was born on April 7, 1990 in Auckland, New Zealand. He grew up in South Auckland in Manurewa, known for its tight-knit community that values family and friends.
Aki is of Samoan descent. His parents, Hercules and Sautia Aki, played a major role in raising him and his five siblings. He attended Manurewa High School, where he began playing rugby.
Despite the financial hardships his family faced, Aki tried his best to support them, even taking a break from playing rugby to work as a bank teller after graduating from high school in 2011.
Personal life
Bundee Aki married Kayla Aki in December 2018. The couple has four children: Armani-Jade, Adrianna, Ailbhe Lasela Ali’itasi and Andronicus Junior Papamau.
Bundee often expresses his gratitude for Kayla’s unwavering support, which has played a significant role in his career and personal life. The family currently resides in Galway, Ireland, where they have made a comfortable home.
Bundee’s personal life is marked by his devotion to his family. He balances his professional commitments with his role as a husband and father. There have been no public reports of divorce or extramarital affairs, suggesting a stable family life.
Career
Bundee Aki’s rugby career began in New Zealand, playing for Counties Manukau in the Mitre 10 Cup and then the Chiefs in Super Rugby. His move to Connacht in 2014 under coach Pat Lam was a turning point, as he quickly became a key player for the team.
During the 2015–16 season, Aki was named Pro12 Player of the Season and helped Connacht win the Pro12 title. After fulfilling his residency requirement, he made his debut for the Ireland national team in 2017 and played a key role in Ireland’s Grand Slam victory at the 2018 Six Nations Championship.
Since then, he has been a regular for Ireland, featuring in multiple Six Nations and World Cup tournaments. In 2021, Aki was selected for the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa, further cementing his status as a top rugby player.
Prize
- – Pro12 Player of the Season: 2015-2016
- – Pro12 Champion: 2015-2016
- – Six Nations Grand Slam winner: 2018
- – British and Irish Lions selection: 2021
- – Nominated for World Player of the Year: 2023
Net worth
Bundee Aki’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. His wealth comes primarily from his rugby contracts with Connacht and the Ireland national team, as well as endorsement and sponsorship deals related to his sporting success.
Argumentative
Bundee Aki has faced a number of controversies throughout his career, mainly relating to on-field incidents and eligibility debates. A significant controversy arose when Aki was eligible to play for Ireland based on residency rules.
His selection has sparked debate about the fairness of such qualifying criteria, with some critics arguing that it stifles homegrown talent and questions his connection to Ireland. Despite the criticism, Aki remains focused on proving his commitment through his performances.
In terms of on-field controversies, Aki has received two red cards in his international career, attracting considerable attention. The first was during the 2019 Rugby World Cup against Samoa, which resulted in a suspension and exclusion from the tournament.
A second red card came in the 2021 Six Nations Championship against England for a high tackle on Billy Vunipola. These incidents have led to debate about his playing style, with some viewing him as a hard-hitting player who is prone to discipline. Conversely, others have defended his aggressive approach as part of his effectiveness on the pitch.
Aki has also faced criticism from former players and commentators for his aggressive style of play. Some have argued that his approach is detrimental, risking fines and suspensions, while others have argued that it brings much-needed physicality to the team.
Throughout these controversies, Aki has remained professional and committed to his team. He has often responded to criticism by focusing on improving his game and following the rules.
Despite these controversies, Aki’s contributions to Irish rugby and consistent performance have earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates, coaches and a significant portion of the rugby community. His ability to overcome these challenges and maintain a high level of performance highlights his resilience and dedication to the sport.
Social media
- – Instagram: @bundeeaki
- – Twitter: None
