Wallabies great Michael Hooper has announced his retirement from all forms of Australian rugby, effective immediately.
The 32-year-old former Test captain announced the news via Instagram on Sunday night.
Hooper missed out on selection for Australia’s Olympic sevens team which is due to be announced on Wednesday.
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“What a ride! My Olympic journey has come to an end, and with it, my Australian rugby career,” Hooper said.
“To the Aussie sevens team, I wish you all the best, you’ve been an awesome, helpful, and talented group of athletes to be part of.
“As for my time in Australian rugby, I’m grateful to my family and friends for their unwavering support throughout. We’ve shared an incredible journey, filled with unforgettable experiences, challenges, and memories. Thank you.”
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Hooper is a four time John Eales Medalist as the country’s best player and he won 125 Test caps.
The flanker captained the Wallabies more than any other player, leading the men in gold on 69 occasions.
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that Hooper also resisted the option of him still travelling to Paris as one of the two emergency reserve players, pushing for a longer serving squad member to get the spot instead.
“Michael has been an incredible player and ambassador for our sport,” Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh said.
“He leaves a legacy that will remember him as one of the greatest to wear the Wallaby gold and a favourite among Australian supporters.
“Michael’s incredibly well respected here and around the world, and on behalf of Rugby Australia, I want to wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
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Hooper switched to sevens after being controversially axed by Eddie Jones for last year’s Rugby World Cup.
But his transition into the new format was plagued by injuries which limited his exposure on the world series.
Hooper will be part of Stan Sport’s coverage for the Paris Olympics.
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The men’s sevens competition kicks off on July 24.
Australia’s team is set to include Roosters-bound former Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase and Brumbies speedster Corey Toole.
– with Sam Worthington