End of an Era: Jared Waerea-Hargreaves to Retire After 18 Legendary Seasons in Rugby League
Veteran front-rower and former New Zealand international Jared Waerea-Hargreaves has announced his retirement at the conclusion of the 2025 Super League season, marking the end of an extraordinary 18-year professional rugby league journey.
Currently playing with Hull KR in the Super League, the 36-year-old is in his 17th season of top-flight rugby league. Known for his ferocity on the field and leadership off it, Waerea-Hargreaves began his career with Manly in 2009, appearing in six games before finding his true home with the Sydney Roosters. Over the next 14 years, he would go on to make a record 310 appearances for the Roosters, securing three NRL premierships and three World Club Challenge titles.
Reflecting on his career, Waerea-Hargreaves expressed heartfelt gratitude: “Rugby league has given me so much—lifelong friends, cherished memories, and the honour of representing my country. I’m incredibly thankful to Manly for giving me my start and to the Roosters, who became my home and shaped me as both a player and a man.”
He paid special tribute to Roosters coach Trent Robinson and chairman Nick Politis for their unwavering support throughout his journey. Waerea-Hargreaves also acknowledged his current club, Hull KR, for providing him and his family a fulfilling chapter in the twilight of his career.
Internationally, Waerea-Hargreaves was a mainstay in the New Zealand Kiwis squad, earning 33 test caps. His final appearance came during the 2022 Rugby League World Cup in a group-stage win over Ireland.
Hull KR coach Willie Peters described him as “arguably one of the best front-rowers of all time,” a sentiment widely shared across the rugby league community.
In his parting words, Waerea-Hargreaves gave thanks to fans and, most emotionally, to his wife and family: “Your support has been everything. I love you, and I’m excited for the next chapter.”
As he prepares to hang up his boots, Waerea-Hargreaves leaves behind a legacy defined by toughness, loyalty, and an enduring passion for the game.
