25-year-old Kangaroos forward Jaidyn Stephenson hangs up the boots after 'losing passion for the game'
Updated . First published
Jaidyn Stephenson is hanging up the boots after seven years in the AFL, aged 25.
Stephenson confirmed reports that he had "lost passion for the game" in recent years as his primary reasoning for retirement.
The North Melbourne forward is still signed on for 2025 but is reported to have gained permission to be paid out for the remaining year of his contract with the club.
READ MORE: Melbourne Cup market rocked by scratching of top hope
READ MORE: Footy boss breaks silence on AFLW uproar
READ MORE: Wade begins new role as Aussie retirement confirmed
"It became clear as this season finished that I wasn't as passionate about football as I once was," Stephenson said on his retirement.
Jaidyn Stephenson of the Kangaroos. Getty
"I loved the friendships the game brings, but having thought things through during the post-season break, I know I'm ready to see what life's about away from AFL footy.
"I've been fortunate to play at North Melbourne and Collingwood, clubs with long and proud histories.
"I want to thank the coaches, staff, volunteers and fans for their support and I wish my old teammates well."
The club expressed their "best wishes" for the departing star as he moves on to "explore other things in his life."
Stephenson has played 122 games in his AFL career, 12 of those with the Roos in 2024.
In 2018, he was awarded the AFL's Rising Star Award as he finished his debut season with 38 goals.
The No.6 draft pick looked certain to become one of the next stars in the competition but has struggled to maintain form since receiving the honour.
Jaidyn Stephenson of the Kangaroos competes with Josh Battle of the Saints. Getty
Stephenson's time with Collingwood was not without controversy, having infamously served a 10-match ban in 2019 for placing bets on his team's games. He also received a fine of $20,000.
Stephenson first made the move to Arden St in 2020 as part of the "fire sale" at Collingwood, as the club offloaded several players in attempt to resolve salary cap issues.
He was traded to North Melbourne in exchange for picks 26 and 33 on a deal worth about $500,000 a year.
The decision to move on from the game means the Roos will have another opportunity to recruit talent in the national or rookie drafts, or hold off selections until the summer.
North Melbourne currently hold picks two and 62 in the national draft.
