FAREWELL CHAMP
Queensland great Greg Inglis has called it a day, bringing an end to his glittering rugby league career
THEY were the five words that ended one of the greatest playing careers in rugby league’s 111-year history.
“It’s come to an end.” And with that, South Sydney, Queensland and Australian superstar Greg Inglis concluded a wonderful 15-year career. After 263 NRL games, 39 Tests and 32 Origin games, the drive and willingness to compete in the weekly NRL grind had slowly but surely evaporated.
With teammates Sam Burgess, Adam Reynolds, Cody Walker, John Sutton, Dane Gagai, George Burgess and John Sutton watching on at yesterday’s press conference, Inglis revealed: “It was time.”
The 32-year-old personally hugged each teammate as he left the ground.
Souths fans waiting outside Redfern Oval were left shattered. One woman burst into tears and sought comfort from her partner while another yelled to Inglis: “Thanks for the memories.”
Inglis, whose family sat in on yesterday’s press conference, will be remembered as one of the finest players of all time, a future Hall of Famer and possible Immortal. His career wasn’t without controversy but through each drama emerged a player of dignity and respect.
“What a career. It’s unfortunate it’s come to an end. Today is the official announcement of my retirement. It’s been an incredible journey. I’m happy with my decision. I just knew I wasn’t in the right head space, to be quite honest,” Inglis said.
“I have made my decision not based on the hunger or the passion; I just knew it was time.
“There’s no retirement due to mental illness or injuries. I have bounced back from an ACL, bounced back from many injuries before. It wasn’t that. I just think it’s time and it’s the right decision for myself.
“I have been contemplating it for a while now. I have come to terms with it.
“If I can’t go out and play at 100 per cent then I won’t be able to perform the best for my team. If I don’t give 100 per cent, I won’t be playing.
“I should lead the boys the best way I can. I couldn’t be that leader anymore, the leader I used to be. And I can’t have that presence that I used to have.
“I was racing the clock, the weight is off my shoulders. My body hasn’t given up on me but it’s time. No one else called it. I’m happy with myself and happy with my decision. That’s all that matters.
“I’ve got no regrets.” Inglis told Souths teammates of his decision after their late win over New Zealand on Saturday. Hooker Damien Cook broke down in tears.