Michael Hooper is one of the most recognisable and highly praised rugby players of his generation – a former captain of the Wallabies who was twice nominated for the Player of the Year, the flanker was capped an incredible 125 times for Australia and 60 times as captain, a record. Still just 33 years young, Michael retired from international rugby last year, so we’re delighted to have him on board as an ambassador. Michael was kind enough to sit down with us and share some insights from his sparkling career – and on life in general.
You have been one of Australian sports’ greatest players and leaders; who is your Aussie sporting hero and who did you look up to growing up?
In rugby, George Gregan and John Eales [both former Australia captains] for what they achieved and how they achieved it. I also have fond memories of all the stars in the Sydney Olympics.
What is your favourite rugby destination and why?
Cape Town, great city to visit, great atmosphere, plenty to do.
What Karma destination is on your list to visit and why?
We love Karma Kandara in Bali and we are so hard-pressed not to go back, although we would love to travel through Thailand.
What is your favourite food to recover and regenerate after a game?
I love Asian food, so anything with noodles and some spice.
Have you got a travel routine or something you do not travel without?
I have my iPad which always covers me for movies, books, games and more. Perfect side helper.
You have visited many countries during your career, which country would you want to live in outside of your beloved Australia?
Japan is a place I lived in for 6 months and I would love to spend more time there. Food, people and culture is very cool, plus the snow.
What are the 3 most special moments of your rugby career?
- Having my family at a World Cup final
- 2014 Waratahs win
- Playing with some amazing friends and competitors.
What is your guilty pleasure?
chocolate
You have been involved in many teams during your career, who has been your best and worst room mate?
Best room mate, Rob Horne. Worst was any snorer!
If you could job swap – which job would you like to do and who would you job swap with?
Pro-surfer would be epic; any of my longtime friends think rugby is easy, so I’d like them to try.
You have a special dinner party organized at Karma for 4 celebrity guests to join you from any profession, any time period, who would you invite and why and what would you like Karma to prepare?
I would love to bring one or two close friends so I could share the experience with them. So that’s one/two. For a third I think Matthew McConaughey is cool so that would be neat. Lastly, any top level comedian could be a nice addition. There’s lots out there who would make a dinner pretty special.
