Parramatta's Keegan Hipgrave forced into NRL retirement at just 24
Parramatta forward Keegan Hipgrave has announced his immediate retirement from the game at the age of just 24.
A statement from the Eels says Hipgrave sought extensive medical advice after being concussed in Parramatta's Round 25 match against Penrith.
The advice he received has forced him into retirement.
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"Keegan has been a wonderful addition to our Club and a very popular member of the team," Mark O'Neill, Parramatta's general manager of football, said.
"While it's a shame his career has prematurely come to an end due to injury, the health and wellbeing of our players is always our first priority.
"We wish Keegan and his partner Izzy all the best of luck with their future."
The 2021 season was Hipgrave's first at Parramatta, after four seasons with the Titans. He was contracted until the end of 2022.
"I'm so grateful to have been able to call rugby league my job for the past 7 years. Unfortunately, it's my time to hang up the boots," Hipgrave said.
Keegan Hipgrave of the Eels warms up before a trial against the Panthers. The aggressive back-rower signed from the Titans, where he was yet to cement himself as an NRL player after a four-season stay. Getty
"After discussions with neurologists and my family, I've made the decision to retire from the NRL.
"I've had best time, met some great friends, made a ton of memories and wouldn't change any of it for the world.
"I'm not sure where 2022 will take me but I'm excited to see what the next chapter holds."
Hipgrave's retirement adds to a growing list of players forced to hang up the boots due to concussion concerns, with Boyd Cordner and Jake Friend two high profile examples from 2021.
