There is no greater stage than a State of Origin decider, but this week, an event bigger than the game rocked the rugby league world.
On Sunday, Queensland skipper Cameron Munster left camp after receiving the news of the tragic passing of his father.
The 30-year-old was just days away from one of the biggest games of his life, but made a point to reassure his teammates and his state that he would be available for Game III.
Now, the match is in the books and Queensland have secured one of the greatest comebacks in the history of the jersey.
In the post-match press conference, Maroons coach Billy Slater fronted the media with two of his senior players in Munster and Josh Papali'i.
"The bloke to my left [Munster], that's as courageous and brave as I've ever seen," said Slater.
"I lost my dad in January. I know what it's like, I know how it feels. Our Dad's are our heroes.
"I don't know how he did it."
It would've been completely understandable if Munster's performance took a hit given what he's dealt with in the last few days, however, Queensland put on 24-points and their captain had several classy involvements.
Known for being a larrikin, the Maroons five-eighth spoke with sincere gratitude for his teammates and coaching staff who have supported him throughout this difficult time.
"He [Slater] gave me the opportunity to go home first [before playing] and I'm forever grateful for that," said Munster.
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When quizzed on his decision to play just three-days after his father's death, Munster was quick to express how valuable the opportunity to play for his state is for him.
"It was an easy decision for me, Queensland's everything to me," he said.
"You never know when it's going to be your last time wearing the jersey and I wasn't going to let it happen now.
"I'll be sitting there when I'm 80-years-of-age remembering 2025.
"I'll grieve and deal with what I have to deal with tomorrow... but I want to soak it up tonight with my family and the team."