Israel Folau has confirmed his professional playing career is over, closing the book on a cross-code journey that took in rugby league, rugby union and the AFL.
The 37-year-old told News Corp’s CODE Sports he would not be chasing another opportunity at the top level, as reported by Zero Tackle.
“Yeah, I’m done now. I’m not looking for any other opportunity in terms of playing at that level,” Folau said.
“I guess I’m still sort of processing it now. Still very fresh, I guess. It hasn’t really sunk in just yet.”
Grateful for a long career
“I look across my time playing the game, I was very blessed to play at the highest level for even that long,” he said.
Read more: Israel Folau Signs Nines Premier League Deal in Australian Return
“It’s not common for players to get to play at that level for that long. I’m very thankful and grateful for the career I’ve gotten to have.”
Folau played 106 rugby league games for the Melbourne Storm, Brisbane Broncos and Catalans Dragons, along with five State of Origin matches for Queensland and eight Tests for Australia. In rugby union he played 96 games for the Waratahs, 20 in Japan, 73 Tests for the Wallabies and two for Tonga. He also played 13 AFL games for the GWS Giants.
His Rugby Australia contract was terminated in 2019, and he came close to a train-and-trial deal with the Wests Tigers last year. He most recently played top-level rugby union in Japan.
Still keen for a run
Folau has signed with the Gold Coast Nines competition, in a team run by Eddy Pettybourne, and said he would also be open to playing local football next year.
“I’d definitely be open to playing a bit of local footy,” he said. “I still feel fit and healthy. It’s great to have a run around but also give back to grassroots footy.”
“With the Nines it’s just a bit of fun, supporting Eddy, supporting Ant (Mitchell, tournament founder), the concept of Nines and the EZ Squad,” Folau said. “Just a good weekend to play a bit of footy.”
More News
