Wallaby Max Jorgensen joins exclusive club with major contract extension

Wallabies outside back Max Jorgensen will be available for the next two Rugby World Cups after signing a huge five-year contract extension with Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs through to the end of 2031.

Jorgensen has decided to stay in rugby union, amid more rumours linking the flyer with a potential move to NRL powerhouse the Sydney Roosters. The 21-year-old has been granted the option of sabbatical seasons in 2028 and 2030 as part of this deal.

Four-time John Eales Medallist Michael Hooper and code-hopper Lote Tuqiri join Jorgensen as the only players who have signed five-year deals with Rugby Australia.

Eddie Jones selected Jorgensen in the Wallabies’ squad for the 2023 World Cup in France, before the outside back had debuted at Test level. Injury prevented ‘Jorjo’ from becoming the youngest Australian to play at the showpiece event.

Jorgensen ended up debuting in Wallaby gold during the 2024 Rugby Championship, named in the matchday 23 against the Springboks in Perth. The rising star has gone on to make 20 Test appearances, including three matches against the British & Irish Lions last year.

“It’s honestly a dream to come true to sign a long-term contract with the NSW Waratahs and Australian Rugby.

“I grew up in Sydney and played my junior rugby for the Balmain Wolves and went to school around the corner at Joey’s – it’s home for me and to be able to represent my state in the blue jersey means a lot to me and my family.

“Becoming a Wallaby has been the highlight of my career so far and I’m desperate to be part of the home Rugby World Cup next year and bring success to all our supporters.

“I know have a lot left in me as a player and as a person and want to thank those who have supported me so far and those in Australian Rugby who have shown faith in me.  I’ll be working hard to repay that trust.”

Jorgensen has enjoyed countless standout moments in Super Rugby Pacific and the Test arena, including a stunning last-gasp match-winner against England at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium. The winger flew down the left edge before swan-diving into the in-goal for a famous try.

The Balmain Wolves junior and St Joseph’s College graduate would later score two tries in three matches against the touring Lions, played a part in the Wallabies’ famous comeback win over the Springboks in Johannesburg, and showed immense skill to score against France late last year.

“At just 21, Max has already developed into a strong Test player and we believe he is capable of further improvement in the years ahead,” Rugby Australia Director of High Performance Peter Horne explained.

“It is pleasing to see a player of his calibre committing to rugby for the long-term and we look forward to his ongoing positive contributions to the performance and culture of the teams he represents.

“With his future now secured, Max can look forward to a big year ahead for the Waratahs and Wallabies as we build towards the Rugby World Cup in Australia next year.”

Waratahs Head Coach Dan McKcKellar added: “It is great news for not only the Waratahs, but also Australian rugby.

“Max has developed quickly and at the age of just 21, is already a world-class winger.

“As with all players, there is still room for further growth, so we’re looking forward to him playing the best rugby of his career here in Sydney for the Waratahs.”