Ireland and Leinster rugby player Jamie Heaslip announced his retirement from the sport on Monday morning.
In a statement issued via Twitter, the 34-year-old said that he retires following medical advice.
Time will get us all, but it's cornered me earlier than I hoped. Every professional sportsperson always hopes to be able leave their chosen sport on their terms but too often that's not the case.
I have had to take on board the medical advice that I have been given and after talking to Sheena and my family I have taken the difficult decision to retire with immediate effect from playing rugby in order to ensure my future well being.
I'm very proud to finish my career as a one club man having played amongst some of the best in the game, who are all like a family of brothers to me.
My goal when I started my professional career 14 years ago was to leave the the jerseys that I wore in a better place and I hope I have done that.
Thank you to the IRFU, Leinster Rugby, all the coaches, medical staff, back room staff, sponsors, media, supporters and most importantly my wife, family, friends and fellow players for helping me to make my dreams come true.
I've had the time of my life on and off the rugby pitch but now its time for the next chapter.
Jamie
Heaslip won 95 caps for Ireland after making his debut in November 2006, captaining his country on 13 occasions.
His last appearance for Ireland was in last year's Six Nations against Wales. He subsequently suffered an injury during the warm-up for the following week's game against England and has been out of action since.
Notably durable up until that point of his career, Heaslip twice underwent surgery on his lower back last year.
In an IRFU statement regarding Heaslip's retirement, Joe Schmidt praised the number eight.
"Jamie was an intelligent and incredibly robust player. The string of trophies he contributed to is lengthy, including 3 European Cups, 3 Six Nations, including the 2009 Grand Slam and a couple of Pro12 trophies thrown in for good measure.
"There are so many moments that spring to mind, whether it be his superb second half against Northampton in the 2011 Heineken Cup final or his clever line and tireless work ethic that combined to see him score the International Try of the Year two years ago, or his crucial try saving tackle on Stuart Hogg on 'Super Sunday', to help tip the balance in retaining the Six Nations trophy.
"Utterly professional, driven to succeed and a leader with the actions he delivered."
