Jarryd Hayne is an Australian former professional rugby league and American football player. He was born on February 15, 1988, in Minto, New South Wales, Australia.
Hayne began his professional rugby league career with the Parramatta Eels in 2006, where he quickly established himself as one of the game’s most exciting players.
He went on to play 176 games for the Eels, scoring 103 tries, and earning numerous individual accolades, including the Dally M Medal in 2009 and 2014.
In 2015, Hayne made a high-profile switch to American football, signing with the San Francisco 49ers.
He made the team’s final roster and played eight games as a punt returner and running back, but ultimately decided to leave the sport after one season to pursue a return to rugby league.
Hayne signed with the Gold Coast Titans for the 2016 NRL season, but struggled with injuries and form and played just eight games before announcing his retirement from rugby league in May 2018.
Hayne’s career has been controversial at times, with several off-field incidents, including a sexual assault charge in 2018, which he was ultimately found guilty of in March 2021 and was sentenced to 3 years 8 months in prison.
Jarryd Hayne Parents: Meet Manoa Thompson, Jodie Hayne
Jarryd Hayne’s father is Manoa Thompson, a former rugby league player from Fiji, and his mother is Jodie Hayne.
Jarryd was raised in Australia by his mother and stepfather, after his parents separated when he was young.
His mother played a significant role in supporting his rugby league career, and Jarryd has spoken publicly about the sacrifices she made to help him achieve his goals.
