Brayden Wiliame, a New Zealand Warriors back, has announced his retirement from the NRL.

Switching to the Warriors for one more NRL season in 2023, the centre was set to play a part for the team in Andrew Webster’s first season as coach, but injuries ended his season after only two games.

He had signed a two-year contract with the Auckland-based club, but due to his ailments, he will not be able to complete the second year.

He announced the decision on his Instagram page.

“From a happy-go-lucky 16-year-old moving to Melbourne to now, a happy-go-lucky man, husband, and father calling it quits on my football career 14 years later.” This has not been an easy path. But I’m glad for every moment because it’s brought me to precisely where I’m supposed to be,” Wiliame posted on Instagram.

“Thank you to all the wonderful clubs I’ve had the pleasure of representing (there isn’t enough space to thank you all).” Thank you for all of the friendships, instructors, and amazing experiences.

I’d want to thank the @nzwarriors in especially for their help both on and off the field since I arrived here. I arrived with every intention of returning to the NRL, and though it was only for a brief time, I’m happy to be Warrior #273.

“Because of this sport, my family and I have stories to last a lifetime, and we will be eternally grateful.”

“One door closes, and another one opens.” “I’m looking forward to what comes next.”

Despite being hampered by injury, Warriors coach Andrew Webster praised Wiliame for his professionalism.

“Brayden is a really special person who has brought so much to the club in the short time he has been with us,” Webster said in a statement released by the club.

“He was set to be a really important part of our season, but injuries hampered him, but he still had a huge impact off the field with his professionalism and mentoring skills.” We all feel bad for him for making this decision, and I wish him the best.”

Wiliame’s Warriors season came after his rugby league career appeared to be ended. Following his release from the St George Illawarra Dragons at the end of 2021, he switched to rugby union in 2022.

He had played 17 games for the Dragons in two years, after previously playing 23 games for the Manly Sea Eagles and six games for the Parramatta Eels in 2013.

Wiliame played 77 games for the Catalans Dragons between the Sea Eagles and the Dragons, which was his finest tenure of his career.

He finishes his career with 125 top-flight games and 9 Tests for Fiji.