An emotional Josh Papalii has opened up on the overwhelming scenes surrounding his last home match in the nation’s capital.

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Announcing his retirement from the NRL earlier in the week, the Raiders veteran front-rower ran out in front of the Canberra faithful for the final time.

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Speaking to Fox League’s Eloise Soher after the match, Papalii revealed just how emotional the occasion became as his family and friends lined up the tunnel to farewell the club great.

“I think the walkout for me (was very emotional),” the former Queensland Maroons forward said on Fox League.

“I couldn’t even breathe walking out to my kids.

“Seeing my family and my wife and parents in the tunnel and all the people that I love and have been in my corner for so many years (was amazing).

“They’re the cornerstone of my career, and they’re the people you fall back on when things are tough

“(I) just really appreciate all the love that Canberra has given me and hopefully I’ve served this club well.”

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Featuring in 341 matches for the Green Machine since his debut in 2011, the future Hall of Famer reflected on the pride that came with pulling on the Raiders jersey for the final time.

“There’s always going to be pride in the jersey,” Papalii added.

“You go out there and you try and represent your last name on your back and the badge you wear on your heart.

“The pride was definitely there. I think a few executions (were not) there in the game, but that’s footy.

“We’re looking forward to the bye now and celebrating with all my family and friends.”

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Continuing to speak about the people closest to him, Papalii stated his family had always been at the heart of everything he had done throughout his career.

“My family mean the most. Hopefully I’ve served them well. That’s all I’ve ever tried to do,” he added.

This place means the world to me.

“Hopefully I can hang around and serve this club that has helped me through the tough times, and I’m forever in debt to this club.”