AFL player Nathan Murphy has been forced into early retirement on medical advice, following a string of concussions sustained by the 24-year-old.
The 2023 premiership player suffered the 10th concussion of his career in last year’s grand final and has not taken to the field since.
Following extensive consultation with a medical panel, the decision was taken to immediately call time on his career after just 57 games.
He becomes the second AFL player this year, after Melbourne’s Angus Brayshaw in February, to retire early early on medical advice around concussion.
Murphy informed Pies teammates and staff of his decision on Tuesday morning.
“I feel it is the right time and the right decision for me to hang up my footy boots,” Murphy said. “I love my football, but my priority is on my future and ensuring I live a full and healthy life.
“I’d like to thank the club, coaches, teammates, staff and the Magpie Army for all their support throughout my playing career and for allowing me the opportunity to live out my childhood dream of playing AFL.
“To my family and friends, I couldn’t have gone through this journey without your continued love and support which I am so grateful for.
“It is not lost on me how fortunate I am to have been able to experience premiership success with this group and club. I hope I did the jumper proud and thank the many people and supporters who helped me along the way.
“I will forever cherish the memories and friends I’ve made at our great club.”
More to follow.