'Has been a real struggle': Christian Welch explains NRL retirement in emotional press conference
Updated . First published
Melbourne veteran Christian Welch has been forced into immediate retirement, opening up on the "struggle" with injury that prompted his decision.
The 30-year-old confirmed on Wednesday he is hanging up the boots due to a lingering back injury, as well as a recent concussion suffered during pre-season training.
Welch's latest head knock occurred on day one of a Storm camp in Geelong.
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During an emotional press conference, Welch explained his decision and how "basic" tasks had become a battle for the front-rower due to the injury.
"I've been struggling a bit - specifically a herniated disc in my back," he said.
Christian Welch during his retirement press conference. Melbourne Storm
"It started to really deteriorate towards the finals [last year] and obviously I wasn't very happy with my performance in the grand final.
"Physically it was a struggle … just doing basic things like bending over to put on shoes, basic daily living and not even playing NRL. I tried to really come back in the pre-season, but it's still there and it has been a real struggle.
"A combination of a variety of other injuries I've had, it's sadly the right time to finish up.
"It's really shattering, because it's a phenomenal squad we have got here."
Welch confirmed his retirement after his absence from Melbourne's 2025 squad photo sparked speculation that his exit from the game was being considered.
Melbourne has confirmed Welch has been medically retired, which, if approved, would allow the club to use the $400,000 remaining on his $600,000 contract for 2025 immediately.
The prop has played 163 NRL games for the club since debuting in 2015, and was a member of last year's grand final team that lost to Penrith.
Christian Welch for the Maroons in 2021. Getty
He won premierships with the Storm in 2017 and 2020.
Welch played six State of Origin games across three series for Queensland.
"It's been an amazing 10 years playing in the NRL," he said.
"Although I've had some bad injuries and a few too many bad injuries for my liking, I've had an amazing time full of joy and happiness.
"Not only winning on the field and playing with some amazing players - but just the friendships and memories and experiences. I've got lifelong mates that I have met at this wonderful club and it's something I'm really proud of."
