Michael Hooper, the ex-captain of the Wallabies, has decided to retire from Australian rugby following his omission from the sevens team for the forthcoming Paris Olympics. The 32-year-old made this public on social media after he failed to make the selection at a Darwin training camp.
“My Olympic journey has ended, and with it, my Australian Rugby career,” announced Hooper on Instagram. Hooper also thanked the Aussie Sevens team, stating, “I wish you all the best. You were a spectacular, helpful, and talented group of athletes to be part of.”
On the conclusion of his time in Australian Rugby, Hooper expressed his appreciation for the unwavering support from his family and friends. They shared a remarkable journey filled with unforgettable experiences, adventures, and memories.
Hooper’s decorated career saw him win four John Eales Medals, an award voted by players for the Wallaby of the year, and two nominations for the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year.
After a controversial exclusion from the Wallabies’ 2023 Rugby World Cup squad, Hooper made a late decision to switch to sevens, hoping to conclude his career at the Olympics. However, his plans were thwarted by recurring injuries delaying his debut until April, limiting his participation to just two World Series tournaments before a groin injury sidelined him from the final in Madrid.