George Burgess has officially announced his retirement from rugby league, following a tough one-year stint with the Dragons.
The 30-year-old came back from a serious hip injury to make his NRL return in 2022, but managed just four games for St George Illawarra and was released by the club at the end of the year.
Burgess also dealt with a myriad of off-field issues during his short stay in Wollongong, including a falling out with head coach Anthony Griffin.
The front-rower announced his decision to hang up the boots via social media on Sunday night.
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"It is with a heavy heart that I officially announce my retirement from rugby league," Burgess said.
"It has been a dream come true to live out my boyhood dream and represent my family and country through my time especially at the Rabbitohs and England.
"Unfortunately injuries ended my career before I would’ve liked but I am a happy man walking away from this beautiful game with my achievements.
"I want to thank all my coaches and team mates over the years who have helped me, along with my loving family and wife. Over and out."
At his best, Burgess was one of the game's elite big men, representing England on 15 occasions between 2013 and 2018, including at two separate World Cups.
But it will be his time with the Rabbitohs that Burgess will be best remembered for, scoring a crucial runaway try in their drought-breaking premiership victory in 2014.
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Burgess played just shy of 150 games for South Sydney, and was even afforded the opportunity to run out with all three of his brothers - Sam, Tom and Luke - during his time at Redfern.
