Collingwood premiership defender Nathan Murphy has retired from the AFL, as he battles ongoing concussion complications.
Murphy last featured in the Pies grand final triumph in 2023, where he was subbed out during the decider following a head knock in the first quarter.
Speaking on Tuesday, the 24-year-old told his teammates before training of his decision.
“I feel it is the right time and the right decision for me to hang up my footy boots,” Murphy said.
“I love my football, but my priority is on my future and ensuring I live a full and healthy life.
“I'd like to thank the Club, coaches, teammates, staff and the Magpie Army for all their support throughout my playing career and for allowing me the opportunity to live out my childhood dream of playing AFL.
“To my family and friends, I couldn't have gone through this journey without your continued love and support which I am so grateful for.
“It is not lost on me how fortunate I am to have been able to experience premiership success with this group and Club. I hope I did the jumper proud and thank the many people and supporters who helped me along the way.
“I will forever cherish the memories and friends I've made at our great Club.”
GM of Football Brendon Bolton thanked Murphy for his contribution to Collingwood.
“On behalf of everyone at Collingwood, we thank Nathan for his contribution to our Club and commend him on the maturity he has shown throughout this period,” Bolton said.
“Nathan will be remembered as a player who showed sheer courage on the field. His one-on-one efforts and ability to intercept and spoil were second to none. In the backline, Murph had an outstanding ability to read the game, lead, and direct teammates on the field.
“A fun and light-hearted character, Nathan also showed great generosity which is what made him a much-loved member of our Club. Away from the field, he made significant contributions within the community space from community coaching to the working in his café.
“Having battled several injuries throughout his career, a credit goes to Nathan's resilience and perseverance to come back and perform to a high standard on many occasions.
“While we will miss ‘Murph', he'll forever be a part of Collingwood's history as a 2023 Premiership player. On behalf of the entire Club, we wish him all the best for this next chapter.”
Taken with Pick 39 in the 2017 National Draft, Murphy played 57 matches for Collingwood, including the 2023 flag as a vital component of the Magpies' defence alongside skipper Darcy Moore and high-flier Jeremy Howe.
The 24-year-old follows in the footsteps of Melbourne's Angus Brayshaw, who was recently "medically retired" from the game.
Brayshaw, like Murphy, was prone to concussions throughout his playing career and was stood down by an independent panel of doctors.
The Pies defender has been seen assisting the VFL side in recent weeks.
he retired? ”oink oink” i knew it