Siua Wong, a 21-year-old forward for the Sydney Roosters, has made a name for himself in rugby league, representing both Fiji and Tonga on the international stage.
Born in New Zealand to a Fijian-Chinese father and Tongan mother, Wong embraces his diverse heritage, with Tongan roots playing a key role in his identity.
Growing up with a blend of Tongan, Samoan, Fijian, and Chinese ancestry, Wong recalls the challenge of not feeling entirely at home in any one culture.
“So on my dad’s side, my grandma’s Tongan and my grandpa’s Fijian-Chinese. Then on the other side of my mum’s family, her mum’s full Tongan and her dad’s full Samoan,” he said.
“It was a bit hard growing up just because I was never full in any of them. I was kind of a little bit of each of them. So I always found it a little bit hard to kind of fit in,” he added.
However, rugby league has helped him connect with his heritage. “Through rugby league, I’ve been able to play in two international teams and learn more about my culture,” Wong said, reflecting on his experiences with the Fijian and Tongan teams.
Wong’s versatility and potential have caught the attention of Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby, sparking speculation about his future in union.
While currently committed to the Roosters, where he was named Rising Star and NSW Cup Player of the Year in 2023, Wong is open to exploring his options. “I’m keen to see what the future holds,” he said.