Sam Walker wins NRL grand final in first year with Sydney Roosters
Sam Walker helped Sydney Roosters win the NRL grand final 19-18 against Newcastle just a week after returning from a syndesmosis injury.
The 24-year-old playmaker came back in record time, playing in the preliminary final a week before the grand final. He played with control in the decider despite his ankle being sore.
Walker joined the Roosters after mentoring from Luke Keary, who won three premierships. Walker had missed 27 days and played most of 2024 with a severe AC joint injury, receiving weekly injections.
His father Ben Walker said Sam showed toughness inherited from his family. Ben won a premiership with Brisbane in 1997 but never reached another grand final.
He told his son, "I hope he enjoys this one. It might be his last."
- 24
- Walker's age
- Roosters 19-18 Newcastle
- Grand final score
- 27 days
- Injury absence
- 21 games with weekly injections
- Games with AC joint injury
Why it mattersComing back from serious injury to win a premiership in your first year at a new club is rare; it reflects both Walker's physical toughness and the Roosters' belief in him.
AustraliaThe Roosters' grand final win ends their premiership drought and dominates Australian rugby league conversation; fans and analysts will focus on Walker's rapid return and performance.
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