Footy star announces shock retirement, age 29, as premiership winner reveals heartbreaking reason why he’s decided to walk away from the game

• A former premiership winner is calling time on his career
• The 29-year-old midfielder made his AFL debut back in 2013 
• He helped the Western Bulldogs win the premiership in 2016  

By Ed Carruthers

Premiership winning midfielder Lachie Hunter has revealed why he made the tough decision to retire at the age of 29 – and one game short of 200.

The clever wingman helped the Western Bulldogs break their 62-year premiership duck in 2016 and was subsequently voted the club’s best and fairest winner in 2018 after a standout season, kicking eight goals while returning 626 disposals. 

After crossing over from the Bulldogs to the Demons in 2022, he helped Melbourne reach two finals, but struggled for game time this season due to injuries.

Upon announcing his retirement, the midfielder said his body would simply not stand up to the riguours of the game.

‘I’ve loved every moment of my time as an AFL player. I’ve given it my all and pushed my body to its absolute limit,’ he said to the Demons’ club website.

Premiership winner Lachie Hunter has announced his shock retirement at the age of 29

Hunter made his AFL debut back in 2013, will bid farewell to professional footy with immediate effect after a glittering 199-game career 

‘While my mind is willing, my body is clearly telling me that it’s time I move on to the next chapter in life. I’m incredibly proud of everything I’ve achieved throughout my career, and while the 2016 Premiership will forever be a highlight, the friendships I’ve built across the journey are just as special.

‘I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my AFL career, in particular both the Western Bulldogs and Melbourne Football Clubs for giving me the opportunity to live out my childhood dream.

‘The support I’ve received from family, friends, coaches, teammates and the fans has been incredible, and I can’t thank them all enough.’

Hunter, who is the son of former Bulldogs defender Mark Hunter, was drafted to the AFL in the 2012 National Draft with pick 49.

Melbourne’s General Manager, Alan Richardson, lumped praise on Hunter for his work ethic. 

The 29-year-old was part of the Bulldogs side who won the AFL Grand Final in 2016

Hunter had fought to overcome the calf injury that left him sidelined in pre-season but has only managed to make two appearances in the AFL this season

‘Lachie should be extremely proud of what he has been able to achieve over a long period of time,’ Richardson said.

‘To play 12 seasons is a testament to Lachie’s resilience and work ethic. It is a credit to him as a person that he can walk away from the game, content that he has given absolutely everything he can.

‘We wish Lachie all the very best in his next adventure and he and his family will always be welcome at the Melbourne Football Club.’

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Footy star announces shock retirement, age 29, as premiership winner reveals heartbreaking reason why he’s decided to walk away from the game

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