Fiji's Josua Tuisova played at the World Cup hours after the death of her seven-year-old son

Tuisova played 79 minutes in the win over Georgia. Photo: Getty Images/Phi Walter

Josua Tuisova, the star Fijian center, Tuisova won the Rugby World Cup over Georgia on Saturday despite learning hours earlier that her seven-year-old son had died.

Tuisova played 79 minutes in Bordeaux for Fiji. took her second win in the pool stages.

Tuisova's father Isikeli Ratulevu, speaking to Fiji Village, said Tuisova did not return to Fiji for Tuesday's funeral in Votua after his son succumbed to a long illness on Friday.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Tito Mikgabrafa Donzel Ratulev,” the statement said. “He is the son of Mr. Jozua Tuisov and Mrs. Katarina Ladoge Ramose. Affectionately known as «Tito», he passed away peacefully after a long battle with a debilitating illness in Lautoka Hospital.»

Tuisova's son's funeral service Tuisova with her son, affectionately called “Tito”;

Tuisova, 29, was named man of the match after Fiji's 22-15 win over Australia early in the group stage and formed a strong central partnership with Fiji captain Vaisea Nayakalevu.

Speaking after the win over Australia's Wallabies, Tuisova praised her teammates. “This is history for us. I just want to thank the guys for their work. They gave everything. I just told them that in the second half we need to empty the tank and do everything we can to try to win this game.

Tuisova has impressed for her country in the group stages. Photo: AP/Aurélien Morissard

“We have a bond as a team, especially when we play together with some of our favorite players. We come together and play as a team.”

After a successful run in sevens, Tuisova has spent her entire professional career in France, starting with Toulon before moving to Lyon and most recently Racing 92 this summer Fiji next play Portugal on Sunday, needing one point to advance to the quarter-finals for the first time since 2007. They could even top the group if Wales suffer a shock defeat to Georgia.< /p>

Regarding Fiji's win over Georgia, assistant coach Brad Harris spoke about the physical toll of that game on Monday.

“There are a few bumps and bruises. I'll tell you what: I don't think you'll get any more physical play than you get on the weekend. Full credit to Georgia, oh my god they were tough and physical. We took a lot of bumps and bruises during that game.”

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