Wallabies legend Matt Giteau calls time on illustrious career

The 40-year-old, who featured most recently for the Giltinis in Major League Rugby (MLR), made the announcement via social media on Friday and his retirement comes after more than two decades as a professional player.

"Just wanted to announce my retirement from professional Rugby Union, half my life spent playing this great game professionally and travelling the world getting to do it," Giteau said.

"Forever grateful to all my many coaches, staff members, referees and touch judges along the way and of course a big thank you to my many team-mates that helped me play and grow as a player and a person."

A versatile player, who shifted between centre and fly-half and who also featured at scrum-half on the odd occasion, Giteau burst onto the scene when he became the first player in the professional era to make his Test debut for the Wallabies - against England in 2002 - before playing at provincial level.

A former Australia U20 and Sevens star, he made his international bow as a 20-year-old when he came on as a replacement in the Wallabies' 32-31 loss at Twickenham.

Giteau went on to play in 103 Tests for his country and featured at three World Cups - in 2003, 2007 and 2015. He also enjoyed great success with the Brumbies, winning two Super Rugby titles in 2004 and 2005.

His legacy will continue beyond his playing career after his decision to leave Australia in 2011 eventually forced Rugby Australia (RA) to change its eligibility laws.

In the build-up to the 2015 Rugby World Cup, RA changed its contract restrictions for overseas-based players in what would come to be known as the 'Giteau Law'.

That rule change meant Giteau and his Toulon team-mate Drew Mitchell became eligible for national selection and he played a prominent role as the Wallabies reached the World Cup Final against the All Blacks at Twickenham, but he was forced off the field with a head knock during the opening minutes of that match.

Giteau would eventually conclude his Test career in 2016 against New Zealand, scoring 698 points in his 103 appearances.

He went on to play in Japan and the USA and helped the Giltinis to the MLR title in 2021 under the guidance of head coach Darren Coleman who is now the Waratahs' boss.

Giteau took the time to thank his family for their support and joked that there were no plans for a comeback.

"Special mention to my wife and kids who sacrifice so much for me to prepare and play for so long," he explained.

"Moving countries, schools, and away from friends so that I could continue to play & chase my dreams. Huge thanks to my parents also, who have travelled the world to support me and the sacrifices they made for me to actually make a career out of this sport. Also my brothers & sister who rode the ups and downs of my career as much as anyone.

"It's been such an amazing experience and one that I will miss but I have milked this game and the contract dry (laughs). Thank you."