Are you eager to know all there is about AFL’s rising star Keighton Matofai-Forbes? You’re in the right place.
In this article, you’ll discover his net worth, salary, career earnings, career overview, stats, and a look at his personal life, relationships, and more.
Let’s get to know the Geelong Cat who is making waves in the Australian Football League.
Keighton Matofai-Forbes’s Biography
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Keighton Matofai-Forbes |
| Date of Birth | February 2, 2006 |
| Age | 19 years old |
| Nationality | New Zealand |
| Height | 188cm |
| Weight | 74kg |
| Turned Pro | 2024 (AFL Draft Pick #69) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $110,000 |
| Salary/Career Earnings | Approx. $92,000 |
| Instagram Profile | @keightonforbes |
Early Career
Keighton Matofai-Forbes spent his early years in Auckland, New Zealand, before moving with his family to Australia as a young child. He started playing junior football with Burnside Heights and then honed his skills with Hillside, where football became his passion.
He further developed his abilities with the Western Jets in the Coates Talent League, where he rose through the ranks and earned captaincy in 2024. Keighton’s impressive work ethic, competitive drive, and strong kicking skills were evident from an early age, shaping him into the powerful forward he is today.
His junior years were marked by moments of leadership and rapid skill growth, standing out with 178 goals in 144 junior games.
Matofai-Forbes made his mark in the Coates Talent League, particularly in 2024 where he averaged close to 12 disposals per game and tallied 11 goals across seven matches. His natural athleticism and drive for improvement attracted the attention of AFL scouts.
Professional Career
Keighton Matofai-Forbes’s professional journey started with the Western Jets, where he excelled as team captain in 2024. His significant performances and leadership made him a top prospect in the AFL Draft. In November 2024, Geelong Cats drafted him as pick #69, adding him to their list of exciting young talents.
Since joining Geelong, Matofai-Forbes has presented himself as a versatile forward. He’s known for his powerful left foot, strength, and marking ability. In his debut VFL season in 2025, Keighton played and contributed across multiple roles, showing adaptability by playing forward and in defense.
His on-ground intelligence and aggressiveness established him as a player to watch. Fans and coaches frequently praise his dedication and willingness to take responsibility in high-pressure moments.
Keighton Matofai-Forbes’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Keighton Matofai-Forbes’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $110,000. This number is based on his rookie contract, match payments, and bonuses from his AFL club.
Contract
After being picked at 69 in the 2024 AFL Draft, Matofai-Forbes signed a standard two-year rookie contract with the Geelong Cats through the 2026 season. His contract includes base pay, incremental match bonuses, and standard AFL rookie incentives, reflecting his status as a new draftee.
Salary
For the 2025 season, his reported salary is approximately $92,000, which is the standard for a first-year AFL rookie-listed player. This salary encompasses both his base wage and match appearance payments, making it a competitive start for a young AFL athlete.
Career Earnings
| Year | Club | Estimated Earnings (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Geelong Cats | $92,000 |
Career Stats
| Year | Team | Games | Goals | Disposals | Marks | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 (U18) | Western Jets | 7 | 11 | 82 | 29 | 15 |
| 2025 (VFL) | Geelong VFL | 12 | 7 | 124 | 25 | 15 |
FAQs
1. What position does Keighton Matofai-Forbes play at Geelong Cats?
He plays as a forward and can also shift to half-back owing to his strong kicking and defensive work. His versatility allows him to impact the game in multiple positions.
2. How old is Keighton Matofai-Forbes?
Matofai-Forbes is 19 years old. He was born on February 2, 2006, and is one of the promising young talents in the AFL.
3. What is Keighton Matofai-Forbes’s estimated net worth?
His estimated net worth is about $110,000, reflecting his rookie contract, match payments, and potential club bonuses.
4. Where did Matofai-Forbes start his football journey and who influenced him most?
He began playing junior footy with Burnside Heights before growing further at Hillside and the Western Jets. He credits family, especially his mother Irene, for remarkable sporting influence.
5. How many goals did he kick in his debut VFL season with Geelong?
Keighton Matofai-Forbes scored 7 goals for Geelong in his debut VFL season, supporting the team with strong forward play.
