Just weeks after sharing the devastating news of his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND), NRL star Jai Arrow has celebrated an emotional new chapter in his personal life.
The former South Sydney Rabbitohs forward has quietly married his longtime partner Berina Colakovic in a private Sydney ceremony, choosing to mark the occasion surrounded by a small group of loved ones and their young daughter.
The surprise wedding has touched hearts across Australia’s sporting community, with teammates and fans alike flooding the couple with messages of support.
A Private Ceremony Filled With Love
Arrow and Colakovic announced their marriage on Instagram on Tuesday, sharing a collection of joyful photographs from their intimate elopement.
“We did a thing!” Colakovic wrote alongside the images, adding that while they still planned to celebrate with family and friends during an upcoming trip to Italy, this special moment was one they would never forget.
She also thanked the close friends who witnessed the ceremony and helped care for the couple’s daughter, Ayla Rae, describing herself as overwhelmed by the kindness shown by those around them.
The wedding took place in Sydney’s CBD and reflected the couple’s desire for a simple yet meaningful celebration during one of the most challenging periods of their lives.
A Stylish Celebration With Their Daughter by Their Side
The newlyweds opted for an elegant, understated look on their special day.
Arrow wore a timeless black tuxedo, while Colakovic chose a modern ivory mini dress featuring a high neckline, short sleeves and a delicate birdcage veil adorned with pearl detailing.
She completed the look with lace tights, ivory stilettos and a bouquet of white flowers tied with flowing ribbons, while keeping her jewellery and hairstyle soft and understated.
Their daughter Ayla Rae featured prominently throughout the celebration, appearing in several family photographs that quickly resonated with supporters online.
Messages of Support Pour In
The announcement was met with an outpouring of congratulations from across the Australian sporting world.
Among those celebrating the couple’s happy news were fellow athletes Adam Reynolds, Murray Taulagi, Josh Mansour, Shayna Jack, Cameron Murray, Jessica Sergis and Kennedy Cherrington, reflecting the respect Arrow continues to enjoy throughout the game.
A Love Story That Continued Through Life’s Biggest Moments
Arrow proposed to Colakovic during a romantic holiday in Italy following the 2024 NRL season.
Only months later, the couple announced they were expecting their first child together, with daughter Ayla Rae arriving in April 2025.
Their growing family quickly became the centre of Arrow’s world—something he would later describe as his greatest source of strength.
Facing a Life-Changing Diagnosis With Determination
The wedding comes just five weeks after Arrow publicly revealed he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, news that sent shockwaves through Australian rugby league.
After initially remaining silent when the diagnosis became public, the 30-year-old later spoke openly during a television interview, revealing that the illness had already begun affecting his speech.
Despite the enormous challenge ahead, Arrow made it clear he had no intention of giving up.
Rather than dwelling on the diagnosis, he explained that his first instinct was to focus on what came next and how he could continue fighting.
He has since vowed to explore every available treatment, clinical trial and medication in the hope of slowing the disease’s progression while also raising awareness for others facing similar battles.
“My Greatest Strength”
Throughout his public statements, Arrow has repeatedly spoken about the important role his daughter now plays in his life.
Watching Ayla Rae grow has given him renewed purpose, with the NRL star describing her as his “greatest strength” during the most difficult period he has ever faced.
His determination to continue fighting has inspired teammates, supporters and many Australians living with MND.
Rugby League Rallies Around One of Its Own
Arrow’s diagnosis has united the rugby league community in an extraordinary show of support.
This weekend, South Sydney Rabbitohs and the NRL will host what has been described as “the world’s biggest birthday party” during the Rabbitohs’ clash with the Newcastle Knights, encouraging fans to donate in support of MND awareness and research.
Arrow is also expected to make a special appearance before the upcoming State of Origin fixture, bringing the interstate shield onto the field ahead of kick-off.
For a player who has built his reputation on resilience and courage throughout his career, his greatest fight is now taking place away from the football field.
And as his surprise wedding has shown, even in the face of unimaginable adversity, there is still room for moments of hope, love and celebration.
