Michael Hooper’s Path from Wallaby Captain to Sevens Hopeful: An Olympic Journey 

Michael Hooper, a name synonymous with Australian rugby, is embarking on a bold new chapter in his career. The 32-year-old former Wallabies captain is setting his sights on a place in the Australian Rugby Sevens team for the upcoming Paris Olympics. This unexpected switch marks a significant challenge for Hooper, demanding a new level of athleticism and a different approach to the game he’s dominated for over a decade.

Hooper’s legacy in Australian rugby is undeniable. Capped 125 times for the Wallabies, he’s considered one of the nation’s finest players during a challenging period for the team. A tireless competitor known for his ferocious work ethic, Hooper has consistently delivered impressive performances in the demanding 15-man format.

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However, the wear and tear of a long career took its toll. Mental and physical fatigue became a factor in recent years. A calf injury further complicated matters, contributing to Eddie Jones’s surprising decision to exclude Hooper from Australia’s 2023 Rugby World Cup squad.

Undeterred by these setbacks, Hooper embarked on a remarkable course correction. In November 2023, he made a surprising announcement: his intention to pursue a spot in the Australian Sevens team for the Paris Olympics. This transition is no easy feat. Sevens rugby is a condensed, fast-paced game demanding exceptional speed, agility, and explosive athleticism. It’s a different beast altogether compared to the more structured, set-piece oriented 15-man game Hooper mastered throughout his career.

Hooper’s Sevens debut at the Hong Kong Sevens in April 2024 was bittersweet. While he displayed his trademark grit and determination, an Achilles issue hampered his performance. Nevertheless, his perseverance paid off in the Singapore Sevens last Friday. He finally crossed the try line for the first time, albeit in an unorthodox fashion – a “three-metre dart over the line” as he jokingly described it.

This maiden try, however, holds greater significance. It represents a crucial milestone in Hooper’s Olympic quest. While he readily admits his unorthodox scoring method, the bigger picture is clear – he’s hungry for more. His lighthearted comment about needing “a couple more of those offloads” from teammate Dietrich Roache underscores his desire to contribute on the scoreboard.

Hooper’s Olympic aspirations extend beyond personal achievement. His vast experience as a leader and proven ability to perform under pressure are seen as valuable assets by the Australian Sevens team. Nick Malouf, the current captain, believes Hooper’s presence could be a game-changer. “He understands what it takes and what good decisions look like,” Malouf stated, highlighting Hooper’s leadership qualities and experience in high-pressure situations.

Hooper’s pursuit of Olympic glory isn’t unique. He joins a select group of players aiming to bridge the gap between the high-profile world of Test rugby and the Olympic Sevens stage. Players like South African stars Cheslin Kolbe and Kwagga Smith have achieved this feat, adding an Olympic medal to their impressive resumes. French scrum-half Antoine Dupont is another notable example. His successful foray into the Sevens circuit this year has not only bolstered his own medal chances but also generated significant buzz for the upcoming Olympic tournament.

Hooper’s transition offers a fascinating narrative. It’s a testament to his unwavering dedication to the sport and his adaptability as a player. Should he secure a spot on the Australian Sevens team, his presence would undoubtedly elevate their medal contention. His leadership, experience, and sheer determination could be the missing piece in Australia’s quest for their first-ever Olympic gold in the men’s Sevens competition. The road to Paris won’t be easy, but Hooper’s unwavering spirit and relentless work ethic suggest he’s ready for the challenge.