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On Saturday night (NZT) Dan Carter took to social media to announce his retirement from professional rugby.
The 38 year-old, who first picked up a rugby ball 32 years ago, said he was grateful he was able to announce the news on his own terms.
“I can’t thank everyone who has played a part in my journey enough, from my teammates, opponents, coaching and management teams, sponsors and in particular you, the fans.”
He went onto play 112 Tests for the All Blacks, having made his debut against Wales as a 21 year-old in 2003. After his international retirement, he joined Racing 92 in Paris, before moving to Japan to play for the Kobe Steelers for two seasons.
All Blacks legend
Dan Carter, a three-time world player of the year
and double World Cup winner, announced his retirement on Saturday.
The fly-half, who remains the record points-scorer in both Test and Super Rugby, said he was sad to call it quits. I m officially retiring from professional rugby, Carter wrote on Instagram. A sport I ve played for 32 years which has helped shape me into the person I am today.
Carter, who turns 39 in two weeks, said the timing is right , after nearly two decades at the top.
As accolades flooded social media - with major rugby-playing nations all paying homage - the sport s governing body World Rugby described
See all the reaction as the world of rugby applauded All Blacks legend Dan Carter after the 38-year-old and three-time world player of the year called time on a stellar career.