- Former footballer Keith Galloway is unrecognisable
- When he was 19, he was the victim of a terrible tackle by John Hopoate.
- He now enjoys life with his young family in Australia.
Nineteen years after he fell victim to a shocking tackle by John Hopoate that sent shockwaves through the NRL, it’s fair to say Keith Galloway is a changed figure.
The former Sharks forward was just 19 when he was knocked unconscious by football bad boy Hopoate during Cronulla’s game against Manly at Brookvale Oval, and had to leave the field in a neck brace.
Hopoate was subsequently banned for 17 matches and his contract with the Sea Eagles was terminated. The Galloway incident was the latest high-profile episode in a long line of sagas that included Galloway sticking his finger up the backsides of opposing players, threatening referees and punching opposing players.
As for Galloway, after accepting Hopoate’s apology, he went on to enjoy a commendable career at the highest 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 earn a call-up to the All-Australian squad.
Injuries derailed Galloway’s progress and he moved to the UK in 2015 after signing for Leeds Rhinos, retiring from the game in 2018 after making 43 appearances for the club.
But Galloway is living his best life after stepping away from football six years ago and moving back to Australia with his family.
And it looks like he’s been working hard on the weights, showing off his impressive physique on Instagram.
Former rugby league star Keith Galloway looks unrecognisable these days
Galloway is enjoying his retired life with his partner and young family.
The former NRL star was the victim of a horrific tackle by John Hopoate in 2005.
The 38-year-old has also posted loving photos with his partner, Gen, and their children.
“Life lately,” he captioned one of his recent posts which featured a selfie of him and Gen in front of the mirror after a gym session.
Another photo shows Galloway walking his dog on the beach as he posted another sweet snap with his son after a football session.
Reflecting on his retirement, Galloway said in 2018: ‘It’s been a difficult decision, but I know it’s the right one for me and my family.
‘Despite my two major injuries at the Rhinos, I love being part of this fantastic club.’