Melbourne Storm star Eli Katoa has shared images of his hospital stay after undergoing brain surgery following multiple head knocks while playing for Tonga. The 25-year-old second-rower was ruled out of the 2026 NRL season after emergency surgery in New Zealand to treat a brain bleed suffered during the Pacific Championships.
Katoa paid tribute to his partner Tuitofa Aloua, calling her 'amazing' for staying by his side. He posted a video of her asleep in a chair next to his hospital bed, saying, 'Strong and sticking by my side through it all. I appreciate you and I love you so much.' Aloua replied, saying she was 'so proud' of his strength.
In an Instagram post, Katoa said his recovery is 'going well' and he hopes to return to the NRL. 'I'm back at home at the moment and I'm in a good place now,' he wrote. 'And to the Storm fans, in God's timing, 'I'll be back soon.''
Katoa spent more than two weeks in hospital after suffering three head knocks in 90 minutes and requiring oxygen on the sidelines. He consulted with specialists in Melbourne, who advised him not to play next season. He is continuing rehabilitation under Storm medical staff.
The NRL has completed an investigation into Tonga's handling of his injuries but has not yet released its findings. The Storm will receive salary-cap relief for Katoa, who was the Dally M second-rower of the year. Teammates including Ryan Papenhuyzen offered support, with Papenhuyzen writing, 'Health is wealth king, look after yourself my bro.'
