Tom Boyd announces shock retirement from the AFL
Western Bulldogs premiership hero Tom Boyd has announced his sudden retirement from the AFL.
The 23-year-old has not played at the top level since round 18 last year amid battles with injury and mental health.
He retires with 61 games and 50 goals under his belt, with a premiership medallion around his neck.
The key forward, drafted by GWS with the No.1 pick in 2013 and traded to the Bulldogs at the end of 2014, played a key role in the Dogs’ drought-breaking premiership win in 2016.
“My decision to retire now is a reflection of issues I’ve had over the past five years both with physical injury and with mental health, and they have now accumulated to a point where I just don’t have the desire to play or the enjoyment of the game I used to have,” Boyd wrote in a heartfelt statement on the Bulldogs’ website.
“I’ve spoken with key people at the Western Bulldogs and my close friends and family, and I am satisfied that this is the right decision for my future. I approached the club about my desire to retire and be released from my contract this week, and we have worked out a mutually agreeable position.
“I’m grateful to both to the Giants and the Bulldogs for allowing me the opportunity to experience playing football at the highest level.
“I have received unbelievable support from the players, coaches and staff at the Western Bulldogs, particularly over the last couple of years, which I will always appreciate.
“Leaving the game as a premiership player is something I will always be proud of, along with all the enduring relationships I have forged and the memories I have created along the way.”
Boyd’s early career was overshadowed by the $7 million contract he signed with the Bulldogs following his trade home to Victoria.
His 2019 salary has been reduced, with the club and his manager Liam Pickering agreeing to waive the final two years of the deal.
All the best in the next chapter of your life Tom Boyd 🧡 pic.twitter.com/XbyGUb9eek
— GWS GIANTS (@GWSGIANTS) May 16, 2019
Tom Boyd didn’t pick himself at pick 1, he didn’t offer himself over 1 million a year. He did contribute largely to something every dogs fan is forever grateful for.
— Jarrad Grant (@jarradgrant1) May 16, 2019
Boyd’s contract worth every cent for Dogs. Flags are why clubs exist.
— Mark Stevens (@Stevo7AFL) May 16, 2019
GF Day 2016 justified every cent the Dogs paid Tom Boyd. Hope he finds everything he seeks in retirement.
— Ashley Browne (@hashbrowne) May 16, 2019
Bulldogs football boss Chris Grant paid tribute to Boyd on Thursday.
“Everyone at the Bulldogs is saddened to hear of Tom’s decision to retire, given he is a much-loved and respected person around the club,” he said.
“Over the last few years we have worked very closely with Tom and his family to support him through a difficult period, and we will continue to offer that support as he enters the next phase of his life.
“We will not forget the role he played on the field, especially in the 2016 finals series when he showed the football world what he was capable of, on the biggest stage possible.
“We will miss Tom’s influence at the Bulldogs, and he and his family will always be welcome at the club.”
