RICHMOND premiership player Shaun Grigg has retired after 214 AFL games, effective immediately.
The midfielder has not played at all this year, battling a combination of hip and knee injuries.
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The 31-year-old started his career at Carlton, playing 43 games for the Blues from 2007 to 2010 before adding another 171 games at Punt Road.
He also won fans at Punt Road for his role as back-up ruckman – despite standing at just 190cm – in the Tigers' 2017 premiership.
Richmond will now have a space on its list for a selection in the upcoming Mid-Season Rookie Draft.
"It's been amazing to play 13 seasons of League football with two great clubs," Grigg said in a statement.
"I've loved my football journey and feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to play this great game.
"Although it's difficult to make the decision to call time on my own career, it may give the club a chance to provide someone else an opportunity."
Addressing the players in an emotional video on the club website, Grigg spoke about the timing behind the announcement.
"Physically and mentally I can't get back to the level I need to be to help on-field. I've been extremely lucky, 13 years I've played for, I've hardly missed a training session, no sick days, 200 games, but it's taken its toll over the last couple of years," he said.
"The situation would usually normally happen in July or August, but with the new rules and me knowing deep down I can't come back, now's the right time to decide I can't go on.
"I can't help on the field this year, but this might be my gift in helping the club off-field and realising someone else's dream that they can come in and play.
"Last Friday I was able to come out and do the warm-up with you boys. I hobbled around and I'll hold that dear to my heart, that one last time. I've made lifelong friends and memories I'll cherish forever."
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Richmond has indicated Grigg – a life member of the club – will continue to have an off-field role with the team.
General manager of football Neil Balme said Grigg had been a "wonderful contributor" to the club.
"We've loved the way he's gone about his football, always bringing a team-first attitude to the roles we've asked him to play," Balme said.
"He brings a lot of fun to the club and has built great connections to his teammates, staff and coaches, and we will miss him.
"We wish Shaun, his wife Sarah and their two boys Sonny and Spencer all the best in their next chapter, and they'll always be part of the Richmond family."
