Junior Tupou is a powerful and explosive outside back who has returned to the Wests Tigers after a stint with the Sydney Roosters. Capable of playing on the wing or in the centres, Tupou is renowned for his size, athleticism, aerial ability and strong ball-carrying, making him a constant attacking threat on the edge. In July 2026, he rejoined the Tigers on a train-and-trial contract for the remainder of the season before earning a place in the club’s Top 30 squad for 2027.

Born in Auckland, New Zealand, and raised in Canberra, Tupou moved to Australia as a teenager with aspirations of reaching the NRL. After spending time in rugby union, including representative honours with the Junior Wallabies, he returned to rugby league and developed through the Wests Tigers pathway system. He also represented NSW Under-16s and NSW Under-18s during his junior career.

Tupou made his NRL debut for the Wests Tigers in 2022 and quickly established himself as one of the club’s most promising young outside backs. His breakout campaign came in 2023, when he played 22 matches and emerged as the Tigers’ leader for line breaks, showcasing the powerful running game and finishing ability that would become hallmarks of his game. His outstanding form also earned him selection for Tonga, where he made his international debut during the end-of-season Test series against England.

After playing 34 NRL matches for Wests Tigers between 2022 and 2024, Tupou signed with the Dolphins ahead of the 2025 season. He made two first-grade appearances before receiving a release and joining the Sydney Roosters midway through the year. Across his time with the Dolphins and Roosters, opportunities were limited, leading to a return to the club where his NRL career began.

Now back at the Wests Tigers, Tupou brings valuable NRL experience, strike power and depth to the club’s backline. Still only 23 years old, he remains one of the game’s most physically gifted young outside backs and will be aiming to re-establish himself as a regular first-grade performer as the Tigers continue to build for the future.