Australia Sevens captain announces retirement

Australia Sevens captain Nick Malouf has called time on his illustrious career after announcing his retirement.

Malouf will go down as one of the greatest players in Sevens history after starring for Australia across his decade-long career.

He debuted in 2012 in Dubai and quickly became a star in the team as he went to three Olympic Games.

Malouf was also awarded the Shawn Mackay Medal in 2020 as Australian Sevens Player of the Year.

The Queenslander has captained the Australians at two Olympics, including at the most recent 2024 event in Paris where they finished fourth.

Malouf also was at the helm when Australia claimed their maiden World Series title in 2021-22.

He played 81 events for Australia during his extensive playing career, scoring 82 tries and 410 points.

 

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“A dream that started in the backyard, practising running out onto the field, tackling my dad and celebrating tries. I could never of believed I’d be so lucky to enjoy the last 12 years playing the game I love in the company of such great people,” he said in a statement via social media.

“There are so many things that I will treasure from my time playing rugby. The chance to travel the world, that feeling when you run out into a packed stadium, the celebrations in the sheds after a win, the challenges I’ve faced and had to overcome, the bonds you form with your mates as you grind through preseason, enjoying a beer after a tournament. Those are just a few.

“Thank you to the coaches who believed in me, gave me an opportunity and helped to guide me. Thank you to the fans who create such an incredible atmosphere.

“To the Aussie 7s, you’ve become my second family, a third of my life has been spent in the team and so many of the happiest memories of my life have been in the jersey. To my team mates, you’re the ones who made my career as special as it was. A great bunch of guys who I can’t believe I was lucky enough to share the field with and now call my mates.

“Thank you to my family for your support. To Mum and Dad I would have never been able to achieve what I did without your sacrifice and I’m so pleased you got to enjoy the journey with me. To my wife, you picked me up when I was down and you encouraged me to celebrate what I had achieved. Your love and support allowed me to give my all to the team. I can’t wait to spend more time with you and Lenny now and not always be complaining about how sore and tired I am.

“Rugby has given me so much and I am so thankful. What a privilege it’s been.”