Fijian Rugby Player Dies of Severe Heatstroke in Japan

Fijian rugby player Saimoni Vunilagi has died after suffering from severe heatstroke symptoms, his Japanese club Kyushu KV announced Saturday. The 26-year-old second-rower was hospitalized in Fukuoka after collapsing during a team training session on Monday.

Despite receiving medical treatment, Vunilagi passed away on Friday morning. Temperatures in Fukuoka reached up to 35 degrees Celsius on Monday, during a period of intense heat across Japan. Authorities reported that a heatwave from July 20 to 26 had already claimed the lives of 45 people.

Vunilagi, who could also play flanker, was a physically imposing player at 1.96 meters and 117 kilograms. He studied at university in Japan and began his professional career there in 2023 with top-division club Tokyo Sungoliath, though he played sparingly. He joined Kyushu KV in late June.

"The players, staff, and all team members are devastated by this sudden news," the club stated in a release. "We humbly pray for the repose of his soul and extend our deepest condolences to his family."

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The players, staff, and all team members are devastated by this sudden news. We humbly pray for the repose of his soul and extend our deepest condolences to his family.