Wallabies fullback Dane Haylett-Petty has been forced to retire from rugby union after a year-long battle with concussion.
Haylett-Petty, 32, played his 38th and final test for Australia in a Bledisloe Cup clash against the All Blacks last year but failed to make a return to the field after suffering a head knock in that game.
While he made attempts to return to the top level, continual symptoms kept him from a Super Rugby comeback with the Melbourne Rebels.
After going unsigned by the club, Haylett-Petty announced on social media that his journey as a professional player was over.
“It's not the way I wanted to finish,” Haylett-Petty posted.
“I would have loved to run out just one more time, but it wasn't to be.
“Rugby has given me so much and for that I am forever grateful. The experiences, the opportunities, the challenges, and the lifelong friendships.
“Thank you to all the teams who gave me an opportunity, and whose jerseys I wore with pride.
“I hope in the future I can repay the game for everything it's given to me. What an amazing journey it's been, but I am so excited to start something new.”
Born in South Africa, Haylett-Petty moved to Australia aged 10 where he’d get his Super Rugby start with the Western Force.
He then moved abroad with stints in France and Japan until he returned to Australia with the Rebels.
He retires with 12 tries to his name at International level for the Wallabies.