- Former football star Keith Galloway is unrecognizable
- At the age of 19 he was the victim of a horrific John Hopoate tackle
- He is now enjoying life with his young family in Australia
Nineteen years after he was the victim of a shocking tackle from John Hopoate that stunned the NRL, it’s safe to say Keith Galloway cuts a different figure.
The former Sharks forward was just 19 years old when he was knocked unconscious after being punched by footballer Hopoate during Cronulla’s match against Manly at Brookvale Oval. He was forced to leave the field in a neck brace.
Hopoate was subsequently given a 17-match ban and saw his contract with the Sea Eagles terminated. The Galloway incident was the latest in a long list of high-profile sagas, which have included sticking his finger up the backsides of rival players, threatening referees and punching opponents.
As for Galloway, after accepting Hopoate’s apology he went on to enjoy a commendable career at the top level.
The prop left Cronulla for Wests Tigers in 2006 and made his State of Origin debut in 2011. At the end of that season he became the first prop in Tigers history to be called up to the Australian team.
Injuries hampered Galloway’s career and in 2015 he moved to the UK, signing for Leeds Rhinos. He retired from football in 2018, having made 43 appearances for the club.
But Galloway is now living the best life of his life since leaving the football field six years ago and moving back to Australia with his family.
It looks like he’s been hitting the weights hard and showing off his impressive physique on Instagram.
Former rugby league star Keith Galloway looks unrecognisable these days
Galloway is enjoying life as a retiree with his partner and their young family
The former NRL star was the victim of a horror tackle from John Hopoate in 2005
The 38-year-old has also posted photos of couples in love with his partner Gen and their children.
“Life lately,” he captioned one of his recent posts, in which he and Gen took a selfie in the mirror after a workout.
In another photo, Galloway is seen walking his dog along the beach, while he posts a cute photo with his son after a game of football.
Reflecting on his retirement, Galloway said in 2018: “It was a difficult decision but I know it is the right one for me and my family.
‘Despite my two serious injuries at the Rhinos, I have enjoyed my time at this fantastic club.’