Luke Keary will retire from the NRL at the end of the season after opting out of the final year of his Sydney Roosters contract.
Keary informed his Roosters teammates of his decision on Monday and will play the remainder of 2024.
His decision is not linked to the various concussions he has suffered throughout his career.
“After 12 seasons and 27 years playing the sport I love, I have decided that this will be my last and that I will retire at the end of the year. It is a decision that I have thought long and hard about and I know it is the right one for me. and my family,” Keary said.
“Rugby league has been a big part of my life and I’m proud of the career I’ve had.
“Rugby league is the quintessential team sport and I wouldn’t be here today without my teammates, coaches, support staff, family, friends and mentors.”
Keary, a rugby prodigy as a teenager, debuted for South Sydney in 2013 and won the five-eighth premiership in his second season.
But after a falling out with Rabbitohs co-owner Russell Crowe, Keary headed to the Roosters in 2017, winning back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2019.
His performance in the 2018 grand final, in which he won the Clive Churchill Medal, was arguably the best of his career.
Keary paid tribute to both clubs in a statement confirming his decision.
“(To) my two head coaches. Madge (Michael Maguire), you guys gave me my first chance and I’ll always be grateful. You took me in as a kid and taught me how to be a first grader,” Keary said. .
“The lessons and toughness you instilled in me have stayed with me throughout my career.
“To Robbo (Trent Robinson), I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to play with you. From the day I got the Roosters I felt at home, you have been a mentor and teammate for eight years.
“We have enjoyed success and hardship and I couldn’t have asked for a better coach throughout the journey. On behalf of myself and my family, I want to thank you for the opportunity you have given me to become the best player I could be.” be in the last eight years.
Keary’s decision to retire comes just months after he signed a one-year extension to play through 2025.
His departure is likely to leave Sandon Smith alongside Sam Walker in the Roosters halves next year.
Robinson praised Keary’s contributions to the club, on and off the field.
“Luke is our vice-captain and a man of great integrity who has always pushed the limits of his physical ability,” Robinson said.
“He has pushed through the pain and bled on our jersey to be the best teammate possible. His fire and skill have made him one of the toughest players I have ever coached.
“I thank Luke for his commitment to the Roosters and his honesty in our relationship as a player and coach.”
Keary played a single State of Origin match for NSW in 2020, as well as two Tests for Australia in 2018.
He appeared in 63 NRL games for the Rabbitohs and will play his 150th game for the Roosters this weekend against Brisbane.
ABC/AAP