Former NRL star Will Hopoate has announced his retirement from professional rugby league.
The 31-year-old, who has played over 200 games across four clubs and 14 seasons, was part of the Tongan squad for the recent series against England, which saw the side fall short in all three games.
The second-generation star moved to the Super League last year and went on to play 31 games with St Helens, including last year's premiership triumph, but will bow out and return to Australia next year.
Hopoate won a premiership in 2011 with the Sea Eagles, before taking on a two-year Mormon mission and returning to the game with Parramatta in 2014.
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Will Hopoate announces rugby league retirement
A classy outside back capable of playing anywhere from centre to wing to fullback, Hopoate played the majority of his NRL career with the Bulldogs, notching up 124 appearances during a six-season tenure.
In a statement released via his social media on Sunday, Hopoate revealed he would be hanging up the boots, thanking his teammates and family for their support.
"What a ride it’s been‼️ To my family, friends, and fans - thank you for your support," he said.
"To all the teams I’ve represented, coaching staff, and especially my teammates that have helped me learn and love this game - I appreciate you!
"To mum and dad, thank you for all the driving you did, sacrifices you made and smacks you gave, to get me to first grade, couldn’t have made it without you.
"And to you my wife, thank you for riding the footy roller coaster with me, holding it down at home and moving homes everywhere we have to support me. I was able to live my dream of being a husband, father, and footy player all at the same time because of you.
"Loved every minute of this career I’ve been blessed with. Looking forward to the next chapter. Thank you rugby league."
On top of his first grade career, Hopoate made five appearances for NSW and represented Tonga on 12 occasions.
