'I had nothing to prove and nothing to get my motivation levels up' - Dan Carter retires from rugby
Dan Carter has announced his retirement from professional rugby (David Davies/PA)
Former New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter has announced his retirement from professional rugby union.
The 38-year-old won two World Cups during a 12-year spell with the All Blacks and bowed out of the international scene with a man-of-the-match display against Australia in the 2015 World Cup final.
Carter was named International Rugby Player of the Year three times in his career, equalling the record held by longtime teammate and skipper Richie McCaw.
After his international retirement, he enjoyed a three-year spell with Racing 92 in Paris followed by two seasons with the Kobe Steelers in Japan. He returned to New Zealand last year for a brief stint with the Auckland Blues, although he failed to make an appearance for the Super Rugby club.
In a post on Instagram, Carter said: “I’ve thought about this on so many occasions but today is the day and I am very grateful that I can do it on my terms. I’m officially retiring from professional rugby.
“A sport I’ve played for 32 years which has helped shape me into the person I am today. I can’t thank everyone who has played a part in my journey enough – from my team-mates, opponents, coaching and management teams, sponsors and in particular you, the fans.
“A special mention to my friends and family who have supported and guided me through my career. Mum and Dad, thank you for everything you have sacrificed for me.
“My wife Honor for being my rock and allowing me to fulfil my dreams while raising our beautiful family – I can’t thank you enough.
“I’m excited about my next chapter in life and what that will look like. For now, I’m sad to walk away from playing but the timing is right. Rugby will always be a part of my life. Thank you.”
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the New Zealand Herald, Carter revealed he had begun to struggle to motivate himself to achieve the highest standards.
"After experiencing rugby in Japan I thought I could squeeze a few more years out of my body.
"There was something really enjoyable about being part of that environment and the culture we had at the Kobe Steelers. I was playing rugby and enjoying it and wasn't sure when I would stop.
"I got forced back by Covid in March and was gutted about that. I was coming off contract and I guess the frustrations of not being able to finish the Japanese season and then going to the Blues for a little bit, I loved that. I loved being part of the team environment but going through that process it made me realise that I play to be the best player out on the field.
"That is my drive and it always has been and I just didn't have that drive back here in New Zealand. I had nothing to prove and nothing to get my motivation levels up to where they should have been to play against all those young bucks here."
Carter is tempted by a move into coaching, but fearful of the time away from his family that would entail.
"My mentality is all about winning and if I got into coaching I would be all in and I would commit to that. I would work around the clock and I know how hard coaches work. They lose their weekends. They are in before the players, leave after them and work on the days the players are recovering.
"My reasons for retiring are to spend more time with the family. I would love to be involved in some way. Exactly what it is yet I am not sure. But I can't commit. I like a bit of flexibility and I am working on a few projects that I am passionate about both overseas and in New Zealand."
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