Wallabies Star Andrew Kellaway Retires at 30, Just Months Before a Major Rugby Milestone
- Andrew Kellaway has ended a 12-year professional rugby career, prompting heartfelt messages from former teammates and fellow internationals
- The former Wallabies fullback leaves behind a career shaped by international milestones, overseas experiences and memorable achievements
- His retirement marks the end of a journey that included the Rugby World Cup and a record-breaking performance at junior level
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Source: Instagram
Andrew Kellaway has announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect, bringing an end to a 12-year career that took him across Australia, England, New Zealand and Japan. The 30-year-old former Wallabies fullback finished his international career with 49 Test appearances and earned tributes from several prominent rugby players after his announcement.
Kellaway confirmed the decision in a social media post on Monday, 12 October 2026, reflecting on the experiences and relationships he had built throughout his career.
“Closing the curtain on 12 incredible years,” Kellaway wrote. “Special people, special places and lots to remember.”
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Andrew Kellaway's Wallabies career and international achievements
Kellaway debuted for the Wallabies against France in July 2021 and quickly became an attacking threat. He scored nine tries during his debut season and received Rugby Australia's Rookie of the Year award.
He also represented Australia at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where he was part of the team's leadership group.
He made his final appearance for the Wallabies against Ireland in November 2025. He returned to the NSW Waratahs in 2025 after spells with Northampton Saints, Counties Manukau, Green Rockets Tokatsu and the Melbourne Rebels.
Rugby stars pay tribute to Andrew Kellaway
Messages of congratulations followed his announcement on Instagram. Wallabies forward Fraser McReight described him as an “Unreal fella”, while former Australia international Quade Cooper wrote:
“Great shift brother!”
Lachie Anderson also praised Kellaway, calling him “One of the absolute greats!” and congratulating him on a remarkable career.
A record-breaking start to professional rugby
Kellaway first attracted attention during the 2014 World Rugby Under-20 Championship in New Zealand, scoring 10 tries in five matches to surpass the tournament's previous try-scoring record.
He later captained Australia's Under-20 side in 2015. He also overcame significant injuries early in his first Waratahs stint and developed positional versatility during his time in England.
His retirement closes a career spanning junior records, international rugby and multiple professional competitions.
Former Wallabies star Nathan Charles diagnosed with motor neurone disease
Briefly News also reported that former Wallabies star Nathan Charles has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) after months of medical tests and a continued decline in his health.
The former Australia international, who was born with cystic fibrosis, described the diagnosis as overwhelming and shared how the news had affected him and those closest to him.
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Source: Briefly News
