LOUIS Rees-Zammit, the Welsh rugby sensation, is set to give fans an exclusive look into his life both on and off the field in a captivating new BBC documentary. Having risen to prominence as a teenager with Gloucester and making his Wales debut at the tender age of 19, Rees-Zammit has already amassed an impressive rugby resume, including Six Nations triumphs and British and Irish Lions participation.
Now, at 22, the young star is gearing up for his first World Cup appearance in France. Before embarking on this monumental journey, he’s granting the public a rare glimpse into his life through a behind-the-scenes program. Rees-Zammit expressed his motivation behind this decision, stating, “You don’t get much access to players’ lives these days… It will hopefully help inspire the younger generation to work hard and see what they can achieve. I have done that, worked hard and enjoyed what has come from it.”
What sets Rees-Zammit apart is his unshakable confidence and ambition. He openly declares his goal of becoming the best rugby player globally, a sentiment that resonates with many athletes but rarely voiced so boldly. “Being the best player in the world is the goal, and I am sure that is the same for every rugby player. Hopefully, it is a realistic goal for me, and I will continue to work hard,” he asserts.
The documentary promises an inside look into the Wales rugby team’s camaraderie, with Rees-Zammit planning to watch it alongside his teammates. His peers have been teasing him about it, but they’re excited about the behind-the-scenes peek into their comrade’s life.
Rugby has often been critiqued for lagging behind other sports in promoting its star players, and Rees-Zammit’s decision to offer this intimate look is an effort to change that. He recognises the importance of showcasing the personal side of athletes and how it can inspire the next generation to take up the sport.
The documentary also delves into Rees-Zammit’s life away from the pitch, offering glimpses of his endorsements and family vacations. His parents, Maxine and Joe, and brother Taylor, are his unwavering pillars of support, and he attributes much of his success to their influence.
However, the program doesn’t shy away from the challenges Rees-Zammit has faced, including injuries and social media abuse following some games. It’s a testament to his resilience and determination.
Known for his blistering speed, Rees-Zammit even traveled to the United States for specialized training to enhance his quickness, reportedly attracting the attention of NFL scouts. He also put his speed to the test with an unofficial 100m indoor run, clocking an impressive 10.44 seconds.
Throughout the hour-long program, Rees-Zammit underscores that rugby remains his top priority. He acknowledges that all his off-field opportunities stem from his rugby career and is determined to stay focused on his sport.
“Being Louis Rees-Zammit” is set to air on BBC One Wales and BBC iPlayer tonight, offering rugby fans a unique chance to get to know this rising star both on and off the field. Tune in on Monday (Sept 4) night at 9 pm to witness the journey of a young athlete with a world-conquering dream.
