Australian rugby player Dave Porecki announces his withdrawal from the sport
Australian Rugby Star Dave Porecki Retires at 32
After a decorated career in professional rugby, Dave Porecki has announced his retirement at the age of 32. The Australian hooker, known for his resilience, leadership, and steady excellence, played five seasons in the UK with Saracens and London Irish before returning to Australia to play for the Waratahs.
Porecki made his Wallabies debut in 2022 during a memorable victory over England in Perth and was named in the 2023 Rugby World Cup squad. In an unexpected turn of events, he became the 88th captain of the Wallabies after Will Skelton’s injury, leading the team in three of their four pool matches during the tournament in France.
Despite missing the entire 2024 season due to injury, Porecki made a comeback to international rugby in 2025, starting in the Wallabies' first test against Fiji and earning his 21st and final cap against the British and Irish Lions. A heel injury ultimately forced his withdrawal from the last test of that Lions series, after which he announced his immediate retirement.
Joe Schmidt, the Wallabies' coach during Porecki's leadership period, paid tribute to him as “the ultimate professional,” highlighting his accuracy in the set piece, tireless work rate, and leadership qualities on the international stage. Porecki expressed pride in wearing the Wallabies gold and Waratahs blue, fulfilling a childhood dream growing up in Sydney.
Porecki's career was marked by an unconventional path, determination through injury setbacks, and respected leadership both on and off the field. His retirement, however, does not imply a complete departure from rugby. Porecki has expressed his intention to continue supporting rugby off the field.
Career Highlights: - Wallabies debut in 2022 vs. England - 2023 Rugby World Cup squad member and Wallabies captain (88th captain) - 21 international test caps - Played 5 seasons in UK professional rugby with Saracens and London Irish - Overcame injuries to return to international rugby in 2025
Wallabies Captaincy: - Stepped up as captain due to injury of Will Skelton - Led Wallabies in three pool matches during 2023 Rugby World Cup in France
Joe Schmidt’s Tribute: - Praised Porecki as “the ultimate professional” - Recognized his accurate set-piece skills, relentless effort, and leadership
Porecki, who is married to Shani and has children Luca, Charlie, and Billie, has expressed his excitement about spending more time with his family. He expressed gratitude towards the people who have supported him in his journey, acknowledging that their support was instrumental in his success.
As Porecki steps away from professional rugby, he leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, leadership, and a deep love for the sport. His retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter in his life, but his contributions to Australian rugby will not be forgotten.
References: [1] ABC News Australia (2025) Dave Porecki retires from professional rugby at 32. Retrieved from https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-06-01/dave-porecki-retires-professional-rugby/133456264
[2] The Sydney Morning Herald (2025) Dave Porecki announces retirement from Wallabies. Retrieved from https://www.smh.com.au/sport/rugby-union/dave-porecki-announces-retirement-from-wallabies-20250601-p58l8s.html
[3] RugbyPass (2025) Dave Porecki retires from Wallabies. Retrieved from https://www.rugbypass.com/news/dave-porecki-retires-from-wallabies/
[4] The Guardian (2025) Dave Porecki retires from Wallabies. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/jun/01/dave-porecki-retires-from-wallabies
[5] ESPN (2025) Dave Porecki retires from Wallabies. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/rugby/story/_/id/34322882/dave-porecki-retires-wallabies-32-years-old
Even with his retirement from professional rugby, Dave Porecki's passion for sports remains evident, as he plans to continue supporting Australian rugby off the field. In the uncharted territory of his post-rugby phase, Porecki will focus on spending time with his family, while his contributions to Australian rugby are certain to endure.
