Footy star Jarome Luai has addressed criticism surrounding his recent endorsement deal with Pepsi in Papua New Guinea via a cryptic social media post. The backlash emerged as Luai, 29, is set to join the PNG Chiefs on a $1.2 million tax-free contract for their 2028 inaugural season, after a single premiership campaign with the Parramatta Eels in 2027.
Adding to the controversy, Luai has also signed a tax-free deal to become the face of Pepsi in PNG. This agreement requires him to travel between Australia and PNG next year, even while fulfilling his commitments with the Eels. The arrangement has drawn criticism from Fox League analyst Cooper Cronk.
"I'm not sure how the NRL can allow Jarome Luai to be contracted to the Tigers or Eels, but he can still service a third-party agreement that is for a contract in 2028," Cronk stated. He drew a parallel to other players, questioning if they were permitted to service future contracts while playing for their current teams.
Luai's social media post, widely interpreted as a response to this criticism, read: "Success attracts enemies. Progress breeds jealousy. If nobody hates you, you are not making it in life."
Despite the criticism, Eels coach Jason Ryles has expressed support for his incoming player. "He's a pro," Ryles commented. "As long as he turns up and does what we need him to do at training, and playing and performing, you know what I mean? It's a pretty big part of all the players' lives now, especially the boys at the pointy end. So, you know, it's not only just being a footy player now, there's a brand and all the rest of it that goes with it."