Shaun Johnson Injury Update, What Happened to Shaun Johnson?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jan 22, 2024
Shaun Johnson Injury Update
Good news for NZ Warriors fans as star halfback Shaun Johnson has been cleared of any serious injury after concerns about an ankle sprain during pre-season training. Last week, the 33-year-old was seen wearing a moonboot, sparking worries about the severity of the injury. However, medical assessments have revealed the ankle sprain to be moderate, ensuring Johnson's availability for the Warriors' season opener against the Cronulla Sharks on March 8.
This comes as a relief for the team and fans alike, as losing Johnson would have been a significant setback given his pivotal role as the NRL's leading halfback. Despite the positive update, it remains uncertain whether Johnson will participate in the Warriors' pre-season trials against the Wests Tigers on February 18 and the Dolphins on February 24. The halfback's absence from these trials could be a strategic move to ensure he is fully rested and ready for the season opener.
Johnson's impressive performance in 2023, with 29 try assists and eight tries of his own, played a crucial role in the Warriors securing their first top-four finish since 2007. The confirmation of his availability for the season opener is a boost for the team as they aim to build on the success of the previous season.
Who is Shaun Johnson?
Shaun Johnson is a prominent New Zealand professional rugby league player renowned for his role as a halfback with the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League (NRL). Having previously served as a five-eighth for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Johnson has also represented the New Zealand Kiwis at the international level and participated in the NRL All Stars in 2013.
In recognition of his outstanding global performance in 2014, he clinched the prestigious Golden Boot Award, establishing himself as the world's best player during that period. Regarded as one of the greatest New Zealand rugby league footballers in history, Shaun Johnson is frequently compared to iconic figures like Benji Marshall and Stacey Jones.
His versatile skills on the field, especially as a dynamic halfback, have solidified his status as a key player for the New Zealand Warriors, contributing significantly to the team's success in the NRL. Johnson's international achievements and accolades underscore his impact on the sport and his esteemed place in the pantheon of New Zealand rugby league legends.
Specifications
Details
Name
Shaun Johnson
Gender
Male
Born
9 September 1990
Born Place
Auckland, New Zealand
Age
33
Height
179 cm (5 ft 10 in)
Weight
91 kg (14 st 5 lb)
Position
Halfback, Five-eighth
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Shaun Johnson Career
Shaun Johnson's professional rugby league career took root with the Hibiscus Coast Raiders in the Auckland Rugby League competition before catching the attention of the New Zealand Warriors, who signed him in 2009. Beginning his journey with the Junior Warriors in the Toyota Cup, Johnson's early performances drew comparisons to the legendary Stacey Jones. His Toyota Cup career concluded in 2010, highlighted by a Grand Final victory with the Junior Warriors.
Debuting in the NRL in 2011 due to an injury to Brett Seymour, Johnson made an immediate impact, showcasing his talent with a memorable solo try against the Brisbane Broncos. His role in the Warriors' journey to the 2011 Grand Final solidified his standing in the league. Johnson continued to shine in subsequent years, earning accolades such as the Rugby League International Federation's Rookie of the Year in 2012 and the Golden Boot Award for the world's best player in 2014.
A pivotal figure for the New Zealand national team, Johnson played a crucial role in the Kiwis' success in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, finishing as the tournament's top points-scorer. His tenure with the Warriors included notable achievements, such as winning the 2014 Four Nations and the Rugby League World Golden Boot Award in 2014.
In 2018, Johnson made a move to the Cronulla Sharks, emphasizing his desire to win a premiership. Despite initial challenges, including a torn hamstring in 2019 and a snapped Achilles tendon in 2020, Johnson continued to display resilience. He rejoined the New Zealand Warriors in 2021 but faced setbacks with a hamstring injury that led to him missing the remainder of the season.
Returning to the Warriors in 2022, Johnson contributed significantly with clutch field goals, showcasing his ability to impact crucial moments. The 2023 season marked a remarkable resurgence for Johnson, earning him accolades such as the Simon Mannering Medal, Dally M Halfback of the Year, and a spot in the RLPA’s Team Of The Year. Despite a calf injury sidelining him in the finals, Johnson's outstanding play played a key role in the Warriors' first top-four finish since 2008, demonstrating his enduring impact on the league.
Shaun Johnson Early Life
Shaun Johnson, born in Auckland, New Zealand, emerged from a diverse background, with a Laotian mother and a New Zealander father. Growing up on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, Johnson's early education took place at Whangaparaoa Primary School, followed by Orewa College. During his formative years, he showcased his athleticism by engaging in various sports, such as basketball, rugby union, and Australian rules football, even representing New Zealand at the Under 16 level in the latter.
However, it was in touch rugby and Rugby League that Shaun Johnson truly made a name for himself. Excelling in both disciplines, he proudly represented New Zealand in both touch and Rugby League. Additionally, Johnson displayed his versatility by participating in rugby union, featuring prominently in his school's First XV. His early exposure to multiple sports laid the foundation for the diverse skill set that would later contribute to his success as a prominent figure in the National Rugby League (NRL).
Shaun Johnson Marital Life
Shaun Johnson's personal life is intertwined with his marriage to Silver Fern Kayla Johnson (formerly Cullen), a prominent New Zealand netball player. The couple exchanged vows in Sydney in 2019, marking a significant milestone in their journey together. Kayla Johnson, who was known as Kayla Cullen prior to marriage, has made a name for herself in the realm of netball.
Kayla Johnson's sporting prowess was evident from a young age, engaging in representative netball and basketball during her high school years. Additionally, she showcased her talents at a national level in athletics. Her dedication and skill led to her selection in the New Zealand U21 netball team in 2008. Notably, she played a vital role in the team's second-place finish at the 2009 World Youth Netball Championships, where they were narrowly edged out by Australia.
The couple's family expanded with the arrival of two daughters, born in 2020 and 2023. This addition to their family undoubtedly brings new joys and responsibilities for Shaun and Kayla Johnson, creating a well-rounded and fulfilling life outside the realm of sports. As they navigate the joys of parenthood together, the Johnsons continue to balance their professional careers with the joys of family life, creating a harmonious blend of sportsmanship and family values.
Shaun Johnson Net Worth
Shaun Johnson Net Worth is around $5 million His primary source of income stems from his illustrious rugby league career, where he has established himself as a highly skilled and influential player. Over the years, Johnson has played for notable teams in the National Rugby League (NRL), including the New Zealand Warriors and the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks.
As a key player in the NRL, he earns a substantial salary and various performance-related bonuses, reflecting his impact on the field and his standing as one of the premier halfbacks in the league. In addition to his salary as a professional rugby league player, Johnson has likely diversified his income through endorsement deals and sponsorship agreements.
His status as a star player with a significant fan following, he may have secured partnerships with brands and companies looking to leverage his popularity in marketing and promotional activities. These off-field ventures contribute to Johnson's overall income, highlighting the multifaceted nature of revenue streams for successful athletes in the modern sports landscape.
What Happened to Shaun Johnson?
Shaun Johnson experienced an ankle sprain during the Warriors' pre-season training, as indicated by him wearing a moonboot on Friday. While initially raising concerns, a recent medical assessment revealed the injury to be moderate, dispelling fears of a severe setback. The 33-year-old halfback has been cleared to participate in the NZ Warriors' season opener against the Cronulla Sharks on March 8, providing much-needed reassurance to fans. However, his involvement in the team's pre-season trials against Wests Tigers and the Dolphins remains uncertain.
Shaun Johnson Injury Update - FAQs
Shaun Johnson suffered an ankle sprain during the Warriors' pre-season training, leading to concerns about the severity of the injury.
In the event of a severe ankle sprain, Johnson could have faced a potential recovery period ranging from six to eight weeks.
The latest medical assessment indicates that Shaun Johnson's ankle injury is moderate, relieving fears of a more serious setback.
Yes, Shaun Johnson has been cleared to participate in the Warriors' season-opening clash against the Cronulla Sharks on March 8.
It is currently unknown if Shaun Johnson will play any role in the Warriors' pre-season trials scheduled against Wests Tigers on February 18 and the Dolphins on February 24.