He released a statement expressing his appreciation to the players.
“It is with utmost respect, on behalf of His Majesty King Tupou VI, the government and the people of Tonga, to convey herein our hearty congratulations, deep love and appreciation, to the coach, captain and respective member of the Ikale Tahi team for their overwhelming diligent and divinely empowered triumph at their recent Rugby World Cup game versus United States.”
“It is indeed a personification of national pride and solidarity and inspiration for the generation of today and tomorrow.”
Tonga defeated USA 31-19 in their last pool game after losing to Argentina 28-12 in an earlier match.
The Toutai Kefu coached side was also defeated in their other pool games to France 31-21 and to England 35.