Who Is Israel Folau? Age, Biography and Wiki
Israel Folau was born on April 3, 1989, making him 36 years old in 2025. He is an Australian multi-code footballer, known for his prowess in rugby league, rugby union, and Australian rules football. Folau's unique ability to excel in multiple sports has made him a standout athlete in the world of football, and his tumultuous career has often placed him in the spotlight.
Occupation | Australian Rules Footballer |
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Date of Birth | April 3, 1989 |
Age | 36 Years |
Birth Place | Minto, New South Wales, Australia |
Horoscope | Aries |
Country | Australia |
Popularity
Israel Folau's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
- Height: 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm)
- Weight: 227 pounds (103 kg)
- Body Stats: Folau's athletic build is complemented by his strong physique, with a well-defined muscular structure that enhances his performance as a professional athlete.
Delivering a sermon at his church on Easter Sunday at the height of the controversy, he broke down while recalling the words from the Bible, Matthew 16:26, "For what shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?"
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Israel Folau is married to his wife, Maria Folau (née Tutaia). The couple has been continuously supportive of each other throughout their respective careers, with Maria being a former netball player. Folau and Maria share a strong bond and often showcase their lives through social media platforms, bolstering their relationship's public image. The couple is also known for their Christian faith, which plays a significant role in their lives.
He attended Lurnea Public School and Westfields Sports High School before his family moved to Brisbane, Queensland, in 2004, after his father obtained work there.
In Brisbane, Folau attended Marsden State High School from where he was selected for the Queensland Schoolboys squad in the Australian Under-15 Championships and also represented the Australian Schoolboys team in 2006. Folau also played several seasons of junior rugby league at the Goodna Eagles in Goodna.
Net Worth and Salary
Israel Folau's net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $5 million. His income stems from his professional football career, endorsements, and various business ventures. In recent years, Folau has made headlines not just for his athleticism but also for his controversial viewpoints and stances, which have kept him relevant in discussions related to sport and society.
In his rookie year Folau broke a number of club and NRL records, the most prestigious being teammate Billy Slater's previous NRL record of most tries in a debut season (Slater scored 19 in 2003).
Folau capped off a magnificent first season in the NRL by winning the 2007 Dally M Rookie of the Year Award and being a part of the successful 2007 Melbourne Storm premiership side, that only lost three matches all year. This premiership was later taken away due to mass salary cap breaches.
Career, Business, and Investments
Folau's career began in the NRL with the Melbourne Storm, before making his mark in rugby union, where he played for the Wallabies. Following his time in rugby union, he transitioned back to rugby league, playing for numerous teams in Australia. In addition to his impressive athletic career, Folau has been involved in various businesses, including sponsorships and partnerships. He has also established his own brand, focusing on fitness and wellness products.
Folau began his professional career playing rugby league. Representing the Melbourne Storm in the National Rugby League (NRL) from 2007 to 2008, where he broke the record for most tries in a debut year. He then played with the Brisbane Broncos from 2009 to 2010.
Playing as a or, Folau represented Queensland in the State of Origin and Australia, becoming the youngest player to play for both teams. In 2020, Folau played for the French rugby league team the Catalans Dragons in the Super League.
Social Network
Israel Folau is active on various social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter. His online presence allows him to connect with fans and share insights into his life, faith, and career. His followers appreciate glimpses into his training routines, family life, and community involvement.
In 2011, Folau joined the Greater Western Sydney Giants in the Australian Football League (AFL) and played for two seasons. In December 2012, Folau announced he was to switch codes again, this time for rugby union, and signed a one-year contract with the Waratahs.
He would later become the record holder for the most tries scored in Super Rugby history post the 2019 season. At international level, he made his debut for Australia in 2013 against the British & Irish Lions, and went on to earn 73 caps.
In 2022, Folau switched allegiance in order to represent Tonga after World Rugby announced its new eligibility laws.
Education
Israel Folau attended the prestigious Kogarah High School and later made a name for himself through his exceptional talent in sports. While much of his career has revolved around athletics, Folau has also partaken in educational initiatives, reflecting on the importance of balance between sports and personal development.
At the Australian championships, Folau was spotted by a Melbourne Storm scout and was invited to play his junior football with the Storm's feeder club at the time, Queensland Cup team, the Norths Devils. He won a premiership while playing with Norths and became the first player to represent Queensland Under-19's while still only 16 years old.
From playing with the Queensland Schoolboys and the Devils, in 2006, while in year 12 at Marsden State High School where his classmates were Chris Sandow and Antonio Winterstein, Folau was selected to play in the Australian Schoolboys squad that toured Wales, England and France.
Folau was strong, representing Australia and at the end of the tour was awarded the Australian Secondary School Rugby Leagues (ASSRL) Award for the best back of the tournament. Playing years above his age gave Melbourne the confidence to give Folau an opportunity in the NRL.