In a heartfelt revelation, Jaxson Paulo, the talented winger currently set to join the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, has opened up about his decision to leave the South Sydney Rabbitohs, calling it “the greatest regret of my career.” Known for his electrifying performances and strong connection with fans, Paulo expressed how much he misses the club that welcomed him since his debut in 2020.
Paulo made a significant impact during his time at South Sydney. He debuted in round 10 of the 2020 NRL season against the Newcastle Knights, contributing a crucial try assist, even though Souths narrowly lost that match 20-18. As the season progressed, he quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing his skills and determination on the field. In round 16, Paulo scored his first try for the Rabbitohs in a dominant 38-0 victory over Parramatta, solidifying his place in the team.
One of the highlights of his career came during the elimination finals against Parramatta in 2021, where he scored two crucial tries, helping South Sydney come back from an 18-8 halftime deficit to win 38-24. However, it was the subsequent matches, including the preliminary final against Manly and the grand final against Penrith, that defined his tenure at the club. Throughout the 2021 season, Paulo made significant contributions, including scoring multiple tries in pivotal games that led to the Rabbitohs’ deep playoff run.
Despite his successes, Paulo faced immense pressure, particularly during the 2022 season when Souths fell short in the finals once again. After receiving online abuse following a disappointing match against Penrith, Paulo made the difficult decision to sign with the Sydney Roosters, a move that shocked many fans. “I knew it was a big decision, but at the time, I thought it was what was best for my career,” he explained. “I thought a change could help me grow as a player, but now I realize how much I left behind at Souths.”
Reflecting on his time with the Rabbitohs, Paulo acknowledged the strong bond he formed with the fanbase. “The fans loved me so much, and I loved them right back. They supported me through the highs and lows, and I still cherish those memories,” he said. “Leaving that community was incredibly tough. I still get messages from fans who wish I was still there.”
Since joining the Roosters, Paulo has continued to showcase his skills, scoring multiple tries in the early rounds of the 2023 season, including two against his former club in a thrilling match. However, despite these successes, Paulo admits that the decision to leave South Sydney still weighs heavily on him. “I wish I had fought harder to stay and earn my spot. I think about what could have been if I had remained a Rabbitoh.”
With a new chapter beginning in 2024 at Manly, Paulo is determined to make the most of his opportunities while holding onto the lessons learned from his time at Souths. “I’m grateful for the experiences I had at South Sydney, and I hope to bring that passion to Manly. But I’ll always remember the Rabbitohs and the fans who believed in me,” he shared.
As Jaxson Paulo prepares for his next challenge, the regret of leaving the Rabbitohs will undoubtedly fuel his determination to succeed at Manly. The memories of a beloved fanbase and the thrill of playing for one of the NRL’s most storied clubs will always remain close to his heart, shaping his journey as a player and a person.
