Australian Rugby giant and revered Wallaby and Sevens forward, Michael Hooper has declared his retirement from the sport. Hooper made the announcement on Sunday, wrapping up a remarkable career that has spanned more than a decade.
The 32-year-old athlete transitioned to Sevens after an acclaimed career with the Wallabies. His decision was aimed at securing an Olympics spot. However, Hooper confirmed that his Olympic dream had now reached its culmination.
In a statement released via social media, Hooper expressed his gratitude, “What an amazing journey! My Olympic journey and therefore, my Australian Rugby career, is now over, ” said Hooper.
He extended his well-wishes to the Aussie Sevens team and reflected on his time with gratitude, “The Aussie Sevens team has been an incredibly supportive and brilliantly skilled group of athletes to work with. Reflecting on my Australian Rugby journey, I remain thankful to my family and friends for their steady support throughout. It’s been an extraordinary journey, filled with memorable moments, challenges and experiences. My sincerest thanks to all.”
The star player wraps up his career recognised as one of his generation’s most talented players and a four-time recipient of the John Eales Medal. The flanker has 125 matches with the Wallabies under his belt since his first game in 2012 and was a two-time nominee for World Player of the Year in 2015 and 2021.
Hooper also set records in 2021 for being the fastest and youngest player to reach 100 Tests for Australia, and in 2014, he became the youngest captain in Wallabies history at 23, and broke the record for most matches captained in 2023.
The decorated player also led the NSW Waratahs to victory in the 2014 Super Rugby competition and claimed one of eight Matt Burke Cups as Waratah Player of the season.
After his final test for the Wallabies in South Africa in 2023, Hooper switched to Sevens. His debut was in Hong Kong in April, followed by playing at the Singapore event the next month.
Information Source: rugby.com.au