French Rugby Prop Uini Atonio Retires After Heart Attack

French rugby prop Uini Atonio, a key player for both his club and national team, suffered a heart attack this week and has been forced to retire immediately, his club La Rochelle announced Tuesday. The 35-year-old New Zealand-born forward is in stable condition in intensive care at La Rochelle Hospital Center in western France, where he was admitted after experiencing a suspected heart problem.

Medical examinations confirmed the cardiac event, according to a statement from La Rochelle, the Top 14 side where Atonio has played since 2011. "Uini Atonio was admitted yesterday to the La Rochelle Hospital Center following a suspected heart problem," the club said. "Medical examinations confirmed a cardiac event. His condition is now stable, and he remains in intensive care under observation." The statement added that Atonio faces a long period of convalescence and will not be able to continue his professional playing career.

Atonio had withdrawn from La Rochelle's weekend match against Clermont, initially attributed to a suspected chest muscle injury. His hospitalization came shortly after France head coach Fabien Galthie named him in the 42-man squad for the upcoming Six Nations...