Former Wallabies captain Michael Hooper has brought down the curtain on a legendary Australian career after missing selection in the men’s sevens team for the Olympic Games in Paris.
Hooper revealed on social media he is retiring from Australian rugby after he did not make the cut for the 12-man squad for the Olympics, which was finalised by coach John Manenti at a training camp in Darwin over the weekend.
An injury-plagued year ultimately denied the 32-year-old the chance to mount a realistic effort to win selection.
“What a ride! My Olympic journey has come to an end, and with it, my Australian rugby career,” Hooper wrote.
“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.”
The Australian sevens team will be announced by the AOC on Wednesday, but Hooper made the announcement to ensure his absence would not take focus away from teammates are named in the Games squad, according to sources with knowledge of the matter who are not permitted to comment due to the confidential selection process.
The sources said 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 get the spot instead.