Cult hero Marion Seve has announced his retirement from the NRL after 52 games with the Melbourne Storm.
Seve, 31, made his debut in 2019 but has battled serious injuries over the years, including a freak eye issue that meant he had to wear special goggles while playing.
He made a remarkable return to the field last year and scored a stunning try in his first game back against Penrith, but his 2026 campaign was seriously hampered by a triceps injury.
“To finish my NRL career at Melbourne Storm is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Seve said.
“There have been plenty of challenges along the way, but I’ve been lucky enough to have some great people around me who have helped me through the tough times and made the good times even more special.
“I’m grateful to everyone at Storm who has supported me throughout my time here and given me the opportunity to represent this club. Wearing the purple jersey has been a privilege and I’ll always be proud to be a part of the Storm family.”
Director of football at the Storm, Frank Ponissi, paid tribute to the centre’s resilience over the years.
“Maz is a much-loved and respected member of our club who demonstrates what it means to be a Melbourne Storm player through his hard work, resilience and respect for the jersey,” he said.
“Since arriving at our club, Maz has taken every challenge in his stride, overcoming several long-term injuries and working extremely hard to return to the field after each setback.
“His determination to represent this club and be a valued member of our squad is a true testament to Maz’s character.
“The club congratulates Maz on a terrific rugby league career and wishes him and his family the very best for his next chapter.”
Meanwhile, flashy fullback Sua Fa’alogo was crowned Storm’s player of the year on Sunday night, finishing four votes clear of Stefano Utoikamanu.
Fa’alogo replaced Ryan Papenhuyzen in the No.1 jersey and made the position his own with 18 tries and some dazzling attacking performances.
He was the biggest success story in an otherwise difficult season for the Storm who missed the finals for the first time since 2010.
Originally published as ‘Plenty of challenges’: Marion Seve calls time on his NRL career after inspirational comeback with the Storm