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Alex Johnston’s Tears and Tries Light Up the NRL as History Inches Closer

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Alex Johnston celebrates his 200th try with raw emotion as the Rabbitohs continue to chase greatness

In a stirring display of resilience and brilliance, Alex Johnston, the South Sydney Rabbitohs winger, etched his name into rugby league folklore on Sunday, becoming the first player in the NRL era to reach 200 career tries. With emotions pouring as freely as the points, the 30-year-old couldn’t hold back the tears after notching a hat-trick in a nail-biting 36-30 clash against the Warriors.

Johnston’s milestone is more than just numbers on a scoreboard. It’s a story of persistence, pain, and passion. Injuries have haunted his 2025 season, but the electric winger returned with a vengeance, scoring five tries in just four games, and now stands only 13 tries away from equaling Ken Irvine’s legendary record of 212—a mark that has stood untouched for over five decades.

“The crowd started going crazy and I was almost crying,” Johnston confessed post-match. “There were some dark times in the past 10 months… but to come back and contribute like this means everything. I love this club and hopefully, I keep scoring.”


The feat hasn’t gone unnoticed by the game’s elite. Coach Wayne Bennett hailed Johnston as “a special player”, both athletically and mentally. And perhaps most notably, Hollywood star and Souths co-owner Russell Crowe has reportedly expressed his wish for Johnston to retire at the club where it all began, cementing his legacy in red and green.

“He’s so smart in how he positions himself and reads the game. It’s instinct—and it’s rare,” Bennett said. “He’s not just chasing records, he’s carrying a legacy forward.”

But as Johnston climbs towards immortality, the NRL stage continues to evolve. Injuries and late reshuffles are forcing clubs to rethink strategies, as seen with the Raiders and Roosters’ dramatic lineup changes ahead of their Allianz Stadium clash. The Raiders’ rising star Ethan Sanders, replacing Jamal Fogarty due to injury, is now in the spotlight.

Cooper Cronk, speaking about the sudden swap, emphasized the future-facing mindset: “This kid’s been earmarked. He’s got game management and flair, which is a rare combo. It’ll be interesting to see how he gels with Ethan Strange moving forward.”

Meanwhile, Souths teammate Jai Arrow put Johnston’s feat into perspective: “It’s hard scoring one try in this game, let alone 200. It’s unbelievable. He should be massively proud.”

Johnston’s race to history is no longer a silent pursuit. Every tackle, every run, every leap to the try line carries the weight of history and the hopes of fans. Whether or not he surpasses Irvine’s record this season remains uncertain—but for now, his journey is the heartbeat of the NRL.

Personality

Thiago Almada’s Net Worth Soars Amidst Record-Breaking Transfers and Stellar Performances

From humble beginnings to football stardom, the Argentine midfielder’s net worth reflects his on-field brilliance

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Thiago Almada celebrates a goal for Olympique Lyonnais, reflecting his rising prominence in European football.

Thiago Almada, the Argentine attacking midfielder known for his agility and playmaking skills, has seen a significant rise in his net worth, estimated at $5 million as of 2025. This financial growth mirrors his impressive journey through top-tier football clubs and international accolades.

Almada’s career took a pivotal turn when he transferred from Atlanta United to Botafogo in July 2024 for a record-breaking fee of $21 million, potentially rising to $30 million with add-ons. This move not only marked the highest outgoing transfer in MLS history but also underscored his rising market value.


At Botafogo, Almada‘s impact was immediate, contributing to the team’s victories in both the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and the Copa Libertadores in 2024. His performances caught the attention of European clubs, leading to a loan move to Olympique Lyonnais in January 2025. At Lyon, he continues to showcase his talents in Ligue 1, further enhancing his reputation and marketability.

Almada’s salary reflects his professional success. During his time at Atlanta United, he earned a base salary of $1.65 million, with guaranteed compensation reaching $2.33 million. His current contract with Lyon, on loan from Botafogo, includes an estimated gross salary of €3.45 million for the 2024-2025 season.

Beyond club football, Almada has made significant strides on the international stage. He was part of Argentina’s squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making history as the first active MLS player to achieve this feat. His international experience adds to his market value and appeal to top clubs worldwide.

Almada’s journey from the streets of Ciudadela, Buenos Aires, to international football arenas exemplifies determination and talent. His growing net worth is a testament to his hard work and the high regard in which he is held in the football community.

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Personality

Cam Heyward Net Worth Will Shock You With His $25 Million Fortune and NFL Legacy

The Steelers’ defensive powerhouse has built a $25 million empire through his NFL career and off-field ventures

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Cam Heyward's $25 million net worth reflects his NFL success and philanthropic commitments
Cam Heyward's $25 million net worth reflects his NFL success and philanthropic commitments.

Cameron Heyward, the stalwart defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has amassed an impressive net worth of $25 million as of 2024 . This substantial fortune is a testament to his enduring presence in the NFL and his strategic financial decisions off the field.

Drafted 31st overall by the Steelers in 2011, Heyward has spent his entire professional career with the team, becoming a cornerstone of their defense. His commitment was further solidified with a three-year, $45 million contract extension in 2024, which includes $29 million in new money and $16 million fully guaranteed . In 2025, Heyward is set to earn a base salary of $1.3 million, complemented by a $13.45 million roster bonus, culminating in a total cash payout of $14.75 million .


Beyond his on-field earnings, Heyward has diversified his income through various ventures. His philanthropic efforts, notably the Heyward House Foundation, demonstrate his commitment to giving back to the community. Additionally, his investments and endorsements have contributed to his financial portfolio, showcasing his acumen beyond the gridiron.

Heyward’s accolades include multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors, reflecting his impact on the field. In 2024, he was honored with the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, recognizing his excellence both on and off the field .

As he continues to anchor the Steelers’ defense, Heyward’s legacy is not only defined by his athletic prowess but also by his financial success and philanthropic endeavors.

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Personality

Aaron Rodgers Net Worth Will Shock You With His $200 Million Empire and Lavish Lifestyle

The four-time NFL MVP’s fortune spans record-breaking contracts, luxury real estate, and savvy investments

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Aaron Rodgers' $200 million net worth encompasses NFL earnings, endorsements, and luxury real estate investments.

Aaron Rodgers, the iconic quarterback now leading the Pittsburgh Steelers, boasts an estimated net worth of $200 million, solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest athletes in the NFL. His financial portfolio is a testament to his prowess both on the field and in the business world.

Rodgers’ impressive earnings stem from a combination of lucrative NFL contracts and endorsement deals. Over his 20-year career, he has amassed approximately $380 million in on-field earnings, including a notable three-year, $112.5 million contract with the New York Jets in 2023. His recent one-year deal with the Steelers is reportedly valued at $20 million, further enhancing his financial standing .


Off the field, Rodgers has secured endorsement deals with major brands such as State Farm, Adidas, and Pizza Hut, earning an estimated $9 million annually from these partnerships. His business ventures include co-founding RX3 Ventures, an investment firm with a diverse portfolio, and holding a minority ownership stake in the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks, making him the only active NFL player with such an investment .

Rodgers’ real estate holdings reflect his taste for luxury. He owns a $28 million mansion in Malibu, California, and a $9.5 million home in Montclair, New Jersey, showcasing his penchant for high-end living .

As Rodgers embarks on his tenure with the Steelers, his financial empire continues to flourish, underscoring his success as both an athlete and entrepreneur.

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