Ma’a Nonu Shares Candid Assessment of Major League Rugby in the USA
Former All Blacks center and two-time Rugby World Cup champion Ma’a Nonu has offered his expert perspective on the quality of rugby in the United States’ Major League Rugby (MLR) competition. The 41-year-old Nonu, who currently plays for the San Diego Legion after stints in Super Rugby, the Top 14, Champions Cup and Japan’s Top League, provided a frank assessment of where the MLR ranks among the world’s top professional rugby unions.
Nonu did not mince words, stating that the MLR is “probably at the bottom” when compared to other elite leagues globally. “If I would rate the competitions around the world right now, I think the Top 14’s probably the toughest competition,” the All Blacks legend noted on the Kick-Offs and Kick-Ons podcast.
However, Nonu was understanding of the challenges facing the relatively young MLR, which has been in existence for only seven years. “You’ve got a lot of players who can’t play Super Rugby or the Premiership or in France, so they come to the States,” he explained. “It’s purely a competition to try and make the American players better, so hopefully they’re doing [that].”
Incorporating the USA Eagles into the MLR
The veteran midfielder believes one way to elevate the USA Eagles national team could be to incorporate them directly into the MLR. “My personal opinion is that they should probably change the rules, maybe put the Eagles into the MLR next year so they can combine and play together for a good while, and then go into the international games,” Nonu suggested.
This approach mirrors the strategy employed by Argentina’s Jaguares, who serve as a primary feeder team for the Pumas. With Nonu still actively contributing on the pitch for the Legion, his insights provide a unique perspective on the current state and future potential of rugby union in the United States.
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