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Sonny Bill Williams, the legendary All Blacks centre, delivers a stark warning to young athletes from his hospital bed as he prepares for his fourth neck surgery.
This message is crucial for anyone aspiring to a professional sports career, highlighting the physical toll and the importance of planning for life after sports.
At 40, Williams reflects on the sacrifices made during his illustrious career, which includes 58 Test caps for the All Blacks, rugby league accolades, and a stint in professional boxing. He emphasizes the harsh realities of high-performance sports, stating, “If you’re not performing, what will happen? See you later with a handshake.”
Williams underscores that athletes must prioritize their long-term well-being, urging them to have a backup plan beyond sports. He shares his own journey, admitting he dropped out of high school at 15 to pursue rugby but later returned to finish his education and earn a university degree.
“I'm an anomaly,” he admits, advising youngsters to consider alternative paths such as studying or learning a trade. With a short career lifespan in sports, he stresses the importance of preparedness for life after the game.
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