Former Australia back-rower Scott Higginbotham announced his retirement on Tuesday aged 35.
Higginbotham played his last game for French club Bordeaux-Begles last season, calling time on an illustrious career.
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"I knew when I signed with Union Bordeaux Begles for 2 seasons that it would probably take me to the end of my career. And I can honestly say that when I walked off the field after that Top 14 semi final in June there was more relief and happiness than sadness and tears!," he said via social media
"I loved my footy career, the teams I played for, the blokes I played with, the coaches, the admin staff, the supporters, the travel, the life experiences, the life long mates and last but most definitely not least the beers...
"There's few things better in life than playing 80 minutes of footy and enjoying a beer in the shed with your mates (win, lose or draw).
"There's too many people to thank and I'm getting around to that personally. But to my wife, thank you for riding this rollercoaster with me. I wouldn't have made it this far without you. I love you!
"My family and friends that supported me over the many years of ups and downs, thank you all so much.
"To all my team mates, you're who I played the game for. Thank you to the teams that gave me the opportunity to wear the jersey and to represent the club. "Ciao, see you in the stands."
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The back-rower played 34 games for the Wallabies, making his debut in 2010.
He also had spells with the Queensland Reds, the Melbourne Rebels as well as the Green Rockets in Japan and started in his country's third place play-off win over Wales at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
Having reached triple-figures for the Reds in 2019, the 35-year-old made the move to France, which is where his career has come to an end.
