Rugby star who nearly died after New Zealand game comes full circle in shock career change

The World Cup ace was still in his twenties when a health scare prompted him to leave the sport…

By Maria Ortega · Wales Online

Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 7:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Former Argentina rugby player Alejandro Allub transitioned into working as a pediatric cardiologist following a near-fatal heart attack.
Allub suffered the heart attack in the changing room after playing against New Zealand at age 25.
The medical emergency forced Allub to step away from elite professional rugby while playing for French club Perpignan.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Argentina international rugby player Alejandro Allub has established a successful second career as a pediatric cardiologist after surviving a near-fatal heart attack. The former lock collapsed in the locker room following a match against the All Blacks in Christchurch at age 25, which abruptly ended his top-tier playing career.

Allub returned to medical school following the medical scare, eventually specializing in treating children with heart defects. Although he later returned to play several seasons of club rugby with Jockey Club under medical supervision, he fully retired from the sport at age 41 to devote himself to his medical practice.

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Rugby star who nearly died after New Zealand game comes full circle in shock career change

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