All Black praised for opening up on anger

Malakai Fekitoa has admitted he struggles with anger on and off the field. Photo / Facebook

Malakai Fekitoa has won widespread praise after his heartfelt public admission he suffers from anger issues.

The All Black midfielder revealed in a emotional post on Instagram he has a problem with anger management.

The 23-year-old shared a message with his 173,000 followers on Wednesday night, admitting he has struggled with anger "on and off the field". The post prompted an outpouring of support, with many praising his courage in opening up about an issue that affects many young men.

In his post Fekitoa encouraged those with similar problems to seek help.

Malakai Fekitoa. Photo / Brett Phibbs

"I've got a huge problem with anger," he wrote. "I don't handle some situations very well on and off the field. I get really angry sometimes and flip out so I would like to apologise publicly to any of you if I ever said something really hurtful to you at home, on the field and through social media.

"I'm ashamed and regretful, lesson learnt. I suggest that no matter how old you are or who you are, whatever it is, you need to speak to someone about it. Your feelings and what's inside you. It's never bad until it will cost you. #CallOutForHelp."

The Highlanders midfielder, who moved to New Zealand from Tonga aged 17, has earned 13 caps for the All Blacks and last year helped win both the Super Rugby title and the World Cup trophy.