One of the greatest NRL grand finals played out last night, with the Brisbane Broncos taking home the Provan-Summons trophy - and Kiwi Jordan Riki made sure he took an extra special keepsake of his own.
After a nail-biting match that could have been anyone’s game right up until the last minute of play - the Bronocs beat out Melbourne Storm 26-22.
For Christchurch boy Jordan Riki, it’s his first NRL Premiership title, and the Broncos’ first grand final win since 2006.
To celebrate the milestone in his early career, Riki took a handful of grass and some confetti from the Accor Stadium field.
He placed it in the jewellery box containing his personal winning ring - and it’s one of the most wholesome moments post-win we saw of the night.
“Good memorabilia,” Riki said. “Gotta take that home.”
His hometown friends couldn’t be more stoked to see how his journey has taken him all the way to a grand final win.
“Jordan has always been so hard working and has earnt everything he has achieved,” Isaac Anderson says of his close friend.
He has always done it for his family, culture and community which makes him so special.
Murphy Kupe, a longtime friend adds: “Jordan has worked so hard for this throughout high school and after! We have been through all the highs together and lows and this high is gonna be one of the best for a long time!”
“All of us boys can’t wait to celebrate when he’s home in Christchurch, so so proud of my boy! #airjordaninflightbaby.”
In a post match interview, Riki told Sky Sports after the 2023 loss to Penrith in the final, he wanted to “come back and prove myself”.
“People have doubted us all year, they’ve been tarnishing coach Madge and all the boys as well. It’s just a good way to end the premiership and I can’t wait to hug my family too.”
“Nga mihi to everyone back home… this is not only for me, but for you. Hopefully I’m just one of those fellas you can watch and chase your dream,” he added.
Kiwi fans are stoked for the boy from the 03, with one person writing on Instagram: “What a game that was well done and well deserved.”
“Congratulations @jordanriki - you guys were on fire!!! Bringing the mana, kaha, and wairua to the game 💕,” said another.
A third added: “Smashed it 🖤👏🏽.”
I think it’s fair to say plenty more New Zealanders couldn’t be happier for the 25-year-old's success.
