Former Wallabies and current Western Force lock Sam Carter has announced his retirement from Rugby Union.
Carter will hang up the boots following next month's match against the British & Irish Lions on June 28 at Optus Stadium.
Watch every game of SMARTECH Super Rugby Pacific live and on-demand via Stan Sport.
The 35-year-old calls time following a highly decorated career that spanned close to 15 years.
He debuted for the ACT Brumbies in 2011 and was involved in their famous win over the Lions in 2013.
Carter brought up 100 games for the club and went on to play 16 games for the Wallabies following his debut in 2014, including featuring at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
The lock also spent time at Ulster and Leicester before finishing his career in the west with the Force.
"I’ve come to a point where I feel ready to step away from rugby after 14 years in the professional game," Carter said in a statement.
"It’s been an incredible journey, full of unforgettable experiences and great memories. Now feels like the right time to move on and begin a new chapter.
“Reflecting on my career, I feel incredibly grateful to have been part of some amazing teams, the Brumbies, Ulster, Leicester and now the Force. It’s the staff and players I’ve had the privilege of working with that have made this journey so special.
“One of the big highlights for me was making my debut for the Wallabies in 2014, something I had dreamed of since I was a kid.
“I want to thank the whole Force organisation for welcoming me back from overseas and giving me the opportunity to finish my rugby career back in Australia. I’m really keen to be involved in the Lions match later this month. I think the British and Irish Lions are one of the things that make rugby so special and unique. After that, my family and I are planning to take some time off to reassess what the next chapter looks like for us."
Force coach Simon Cron paid credit to Carter after recruiting him mid-season to add quality to their pack.
"He’s been an amazing addition to the team and the Club,” Cron said. “His leadership, maturity, rugby brains and knowledge have contributed a lot to the organisation.
“He’s been a pleasure to coach and a real legend of a man.”
