Wallabies great Will Genia has announced his retirement from rugby at age 37.
The star halfback was born in Papua New Guinea and moved to Australia at age 12, quickly making a name for himself as a Brisbane schoolboy.
Genia played 110 Tests for Australia, the eighth most in Wallabies history, and captained his country three times.
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Will Genia of Australia points to the sky following his side’s defeat at Oita Stadium. Getty
He played his last Test in 2019 before moving to Japan and becoming a stalwart for the Kintetsu Liners in Osaka.
The Liners decided not to offer Genia a new contract after the 2024-25 season and while Genia initially hoped to play on elsewhere, he announced he’d be hanging up the boots on Instagram.
“From walking in to Ballymore at the end of 2006 as a kid, to travelling the world chasing a ball, it has been more than I ever thought it would be, so much so that it feels like a dream is all it should be,” Genia wrote.
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Will Genia with his daughter Olivia during the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Getty
“Moments in time, experiences shared, lessons learned and memories to last forever. Thank you to my people. It was only possible because of you. You know.
“Thank you to the teams, my teammates, coaches, teachers, friends and all the wonderful people in the game who helped me, guided me, shaped me, included me, put up with me and made me better. Thank you to the fans for making the game what it is.
“Finally.. thank you rugby for all the joy. It was always the game and then everything else.”
Genia is a hugely respected figure in world rugby and the tributes flowed, kickstarted by his long-time halves partner Quade Cooper.
The pair sparked the Queensland Reds to their first and only Super Rugby title in 2011, playing a fearless and attacking style.
Quade Cooper: “What a ride my brother. Who would have guessed way back then. It’s funny because we always seemed to find each other through changes in coaches (who I mostly clashed with) to countries, teams and now the other side. It’s been a pleasure and grateful to have done it with you.”
David Pocock: “Congrats Willy G! One of the best to do it. Love you brother.”
Samu Kerevi: “Thank you seki. Wouldn’t be where I am without the role you played. You already know how it is ❤️ love you Sanchi.”
Drew Mitchell: “Congrats on an epic career mate!! ❤️”
Israel Folau: “Legend bro!!! What a career🙌🏽🔥 all the best with the next chapter of your life.”
James Horwill: “Sanche, congrats on an amazing career mate. Who would have thought little pooh bear from BBC would have achieved what you have. Pleasure and honour to have been involved a small part of it brother – hope you enjoyed the ride.”
Nic White: “Incredible career mate. One of the greats.”
Piri Weepu: “Legend brother!! Massive career bro and have watched over the years with interest! 🐐🐐 all the best with the next chapter bruv!!”