Daniel Tupou’s Ambition to Become a Roosters Legend
Daniel Tupou is driven by the dream of becoming one of the most-capped players in the history of the Sydney Roosters. At 35, he continues to play at a high level and has no intention of slowing down, even as he approaches his 36th birthday.
Tupou is currently without a contract for the end of the season, but he remains confident in his performance and believes he is playing as well as ever. His 15th season in the NRL has been particularly impressive, with 42 tries scored since the start of 2024. Additionally, he has maintained an injury-free record throughout his career, which is a rare feat for a player of his experience.
Tupou is on track to join an elite group of Roosters players who have played 300 games for the club. This includes Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, Mitch Aubusson, Anthony Minichiello, and Luke Ricketson. He only needs 18 more games to surpass Waerea-Hargreaves as the most-capped Rooster of all time, a milestone he could achieve later this season if he stays fit.
“It would definitely mean a lot,” Tupou said. “Especially as a one-club man. Just for myself and my family, it would be awesome to tick that off. I’ve walked past that wall every day and I see (the photos of the club’s 300-game players), and it just gives me motivation to be part of that. It would be awesome.”
A Long-Term Vision
Tupou has traditionally been cautious about discussing his long-term future, but he recently expressed his desire to continue playing beyond 2026. He wants to finalize his plans for the next few years and ensure that he can contribute to the team’s success.
Despite his age, Tupou feels he is still performing at a high level. He made his debut for the Roosters in 2012 and scored a try in their grand-final victory the following year. Now, he is surrounded by a strong group of teammates who are focused on consistent performance and winning games.
“I am surrounded by a great bunch of blokes all working towards a common goal of playing consistent footy and winning games,” Tupou said. “I always talk to my wife at home about it. I am still pinching myself that I am still playing and still healthy. I’m extremely blessed and grateful. I never would have thought I would still be playing at the moment.”
Records in Sight
If Tupou continues to play into the next season, he will have the opportunity to break several records. He currently has 185 tries to his name and is close to reaching the 200-try mark, which would make him only the third player in history to achieve this feat. Ken Irvine’s record of 212 tries is also within reach, although Tupou acknowledges that catching up to South Sydney’s Alex Johnston, who is 31 and has 312 tries, is unlikely.
“AJ is on his own,” Tupou said. “He is too far ahead and he deserves it. I am just trying to do my part for the team and play good footy. I’ve just been trying to stay healthy and be the best asset I can be for the team.”
