Who Is Jonah Lomu? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Jonah Lomu was born on May 12, 1975, in Auckland, New Zealand. He became an international rugby sensation during the 1990s and early 2000s, renowned for his incredible speed and strength, which revolutionized the game of rugby union. Lomu played as a winger and is remembered for his performances in the Rugby World Cup, particularly in 1995, where he burst onto the scene. Sadly, Jonah Lomu passed away on November 18, 2015, at the age of 40, due to a severe heart condition. In 2025, his legacy continues to inspire young athletes around the world.
| Occupation | Rugby Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 12, 1975 |
| Age | 40 Years |
| Birth Place | Pukekohe, Auckland, New Zealand |
| Horoscope | Taurus |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Date of death | 18 November, 2015 |
| Died Place | Auckland, New Zealand |
Popularity
Jonah Lomu's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
During his playing career, Jonah Lomu stood tall at an impressive height of 1.96 meters (6 feet 5 inches) and weighed around 115 kg (254 lbs). His large frame and athletic build helped him excel on the rugby field. Lomu’s strong physique combined with his agile speed made him one of the most feared players during his time.
At the height of his fame in the mid-1990s, Lomu became a globally recognised cultural icon of South Auckland and its Pasifika community.
His performance at that Rugby World Cup and others that followed established him as "rugby union's biggest drawcard", just as the game turned fully professional, with him swelling attendances at any match where he appeared.
Lomu's innovative position as a physically large winger was highly influential; for his impact on the gameplay of rugby union itself, he has been compared with Muhammad Ali, Don Bradman and Tiger Woods in their respective fields.
He was appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to rugby, in the 2007 Queen's Birthday Honours. Lomu was known for his humility, gentle nature, and passion. He used his celebrity to support Pasifika community efforts and charities such as UNICEF, and often paid bills for his childhood friends in Māngere.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Jonah Lomu was married to Fanetama Lomu, and the couple had two children together. Lomu was known to be a dedicated family man, often sharing moments with his family on social media. Since his tragic passing, his family has continued to honor his memory and legacy through various initiatives, including charitable works and youth sports programs. Jonah Lomu’s commitment to his family and community remains a significant aspect of his enduring legacy.
Born in Pukekohe to Tongan immigrants from Haʻapai, Lomu grew up between rural Tonga and South Auckland. His childhood in Auckland was marked by local gang violence, and his mother nurtured his interest in sport. Attending Wesley College, he excelled in athletics and both rugby codes before pursuing a professional career.
He burst onto the international rugby scene during the 1994 Hong Kong Sevens tournament, the same year he made his fifteen-a-side debut. He was acknowledged as the top player at the 1995 World Cup for his acclaimed 4-try performance in the semi-final against England, even though New Zealand lost the final to the host South Africa.
In the semi-final he famously bulldozed several players and ran straight over the top of full-back Mike Catt, establishing him as one of the most talented young players of his generation. He shares with South African Bryan Habana the Rugby World Cup all-time try scoring record of 15, which he accumulated in only two tournaments.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death in 2015, Jonah Lomu’s estimated net worth was around $5 million. His earnings were primarily generated through his rugby career, endorsements, and appearances in various media. In the years leading up to his passing, Lomu became a sought-after figure in the rugby community, contributing to his financial success. Even in 2025, his name still carries substantial weight in the world of sports management and endorsements.
Despite making millions of dollars during his rugby career, Lomu died with only a few assets to his name and very little savings. It is believed his earnings were absorbed by his divorces, medical bills related to his kidney disease, and failed business ventures.
Career, Business and Investments
Jonah Lomu's rugby career spanned over a decade, during which he earned significant accolades, including being inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame. After retiring from professional rugby, he engaged in various business ventures, including merchandise and sponsorship deals. Lomu was also involved in sports commentary and ambassadorial roles, lending his expertise to develop the next generation of rugby talent. His business acumen helped him remain a relevant figure in the sports industry even after his untimely death.
Standing 196 cm and weighing 125 kg, Lomu was famed for his unprecedented speed, strength and agility. Exceptionally large for a wing player, he is also known as the first winger to be a physical heavyweight.
For his fast and effortless style of play, Lomu was once nicknamed the "freight train in ballet shoes", and was celebrated for his ability to shrug off tackles from multiple opponents at once. He became the youngest ever All Black when he played his first international in 1994 at the age of 19 years and 45 days.
Playing on the wing, Lomu finished his international career with 63 caps and 37 tries. Lomu was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame on 9 October 2007, and the IRB Hall of Fame on 24 October 2011.
Social Network
Jonah Lomu was active on social media platforms, where he connected with fans and shared insights into his personal life and professional endeavors. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy is remembered widely across social media, with numerous pages dedicated to celebrating his life and achievements. Fans continue to share memories, tributes, and support for the causes he championed during and after his rugby career.
Education
Lomu attended Auckland Grammar School, where he began honing his rugby skills. His talent was evident from an early age, leading to his selection for various junior rugby teams. While he did not pursue higher education due to his early entry into professional rugby, his knowledge of the game and commitment to mentorship has inspired many young athletes pursuing both academic and athletic excellence.
After returning from abroad, Lomu died unexpectedly on 18 November 2015 at home in Auckland. The cause was a heart attack associated with his kidney condition. His passing saw widespread tributes to him and his family, including condolences from Queen Elizabeth II and a haka performed by the pupils of his boyhood primary school.
The New Zealand Parliament passed a national motion in honour of his life.
