Jarome Luai is ‘at peace’ with the Wests Tigers decision to release him a year early from his contract.
Originally contracted to the end of 2027, Wests Tigers mutually agreed to release the star five-eighth from the final year of his contract following extensive discussions between Luai, his management, and the club.
Luai will spend next year at the Parramatta Eels before joining the PNG Chiefs for their debut season in 2028 after signing with them in April.
Speaking on Thursday morning, Luai admitted the Wests Tigers decision came as a shock but understands why it was made in the best interest of the club’s long-time future.
“As a player, our game at this level is a business, and the faster the athlete is able to comprehend that, I think the better understanding they have of where and why these decisions are made,’’ Luai said.
“I’m fully supportive of the club of that, knowing that there's the potential in these guys here, especially in the halves.
“Without opportunity, those guys can't prosper, and the last thing I wanted to be was a roadblock for another man's success.
“I'm at peace. I understand where the decision came from. I'm here to support that decision and support my coach.
“I'm a man. I’m not going to lie; it did take a bit of time to process.
“We’re all on board now. The thing I want now is to be at my best for the remaining time I'm here, and have some fun playing footy with the boys.
“I’m not holding any grudges. I want to leave my jersey in a better position than I found it.”
Luai said his relationship with Wests Tigers Head Coach Benji Marshall remained strong despite the decision.
“Benji explained it perfectly (on Tuesday). I've got the utmost respect for Benji, my coach, for the way he holds himself, and for how much he loves this club and how much he loves this team,’’ Luai said.
“He has been really transparent with me and we've been able to have tough conversations and I think that's why I respect him so much.
“We’re not going to let a business decision get in the way of our relationship.”
When asked how he would reflect on his time at Wests Tigers, Luai felt he had grown as a leader and as a person.
“I think people are equipped to point the finger and sometimes quick to forget. But I've enjoyed my time, and I think I've grown in a lot of ways that people haven't see,’’ Luai added.
“We’re not getting wooden spoons here anymore; that's a tick in that box.
“These last couple of weeks or last couple of months, I just want to put my best foot forward and have some fun with the lads.”
Watch the full Jarome interview on Wests Tigers YouTube
