Following the failed bid to make the 2024 Olympic Games by the Australia Men’s Sevens team, recent convert Michael Hooper has announced his retirement from the international game.
The 125-cap international left a heartfelt message on his social media accounts this weekend thanking his colleagues, friends and family for the incredible journey that his rugby career had taken him on.
“What a ride! My Olympic journey has come to an end, and with it, my Australian Rugby career. 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,” Hooper said via a post on his Instagram account.
“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.”
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh added: “Michael has been an incredible player and ambassador for our sport.”
“He leaves a legacy that will remember him as one of the greatest to wear the Wallaby gold and a favourite among Australian supporters.
“Michael’s incredibly well respected here and around the world, and on behalf of Rugby Australia, I want to wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Hooper leaves the international stage as the Wallabies face the toughest transitional period in their recent history.
Falling at the group stage of the 2023 World Cup, new coach Joe Schmidt will be hoping to regenerate some pride within the side during the upcoming summer internationals.
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