Legendary Wallaby and sevens forward Michael Hooper has announced his retirement from Australian Rugby.
Hooper made the announcement on Sunday, drawing a close to his illustrious career that has spanned over a decade.
The 32-year-old transitioned to Sevens after a decorated career with the Wallabies in a quest to make the Olympics, confirming that his “Olympic journey had come to an end.”
“What a ride! My Olympic journey has come to an end, and with it, my Australian Rugby career,” Hooper said in a statement via social media.
“To the Aussie Sevens team, I wish you all the best. You’ve been an awesome, helpful, and talented group of athletes to be part of.
“As for my time in Australian Rugby, I’m grateful to my family and friends for their unwavering support throughout.
“We’ve shared an incredible journey, filled with unforgettable experiences, challenges, and memories. Thank you.”
Hooper ends his career as one of the greatest players of his generation and a four-time John Eales Medalist.
The flanker played 125 games for the Wallabies since his debut in 2012 and was nominated for World Player of the Year in 2015 and 2021.
Hooper became the fastest and youngest player to reach 100 Tests for his country in 2021.
He broke records by becoming the youngest-ever Wallabies captain in 2014 at age 23 and set a new record for most caps as Wallabies captain in 2023.
Hooper also led the NSW Waratahs to the 2014 Super Rugby title, winning one of eight Matt Burke Cups as Waratah player of the season.
The flanker played his last Test for the Wallabies in South Africa in 2023 before moving to Sevens.
He debuted for Australia in Sevens at the home of Sevens in Hong Kong in April, followed by the Singapore event a month later.