Rugby: Former All Black Luke McAlister announces retirement

New Zealand Maori's Luke McAlister against England in 2010. Photo / NZPA

Former All Black Luke McAlister has announced that he will be hanging up his boots.

The 34-year-old, who spent the last seven seasons in France, announced his retirement from the sport on Instagram.

"It's a good time to let you all know that I have called it a day on my rugby career," McAlister wrote on Instagram.

"It's been one hell of a ride, 17 years travelling the globe doing what I love. I'm so grateful for the friendships that I've made as well as the endless memories."

McAlister made his test debut for the All Blacks in 2005, making 30 appearances before continuing his career overseas.

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It’s a good time to let you all know that I have called it a day on my rugby career. It’s been one hell of a ride, 17 years travelling the globe doing what I love. I’m so grateful for the friendships that I’ve made as well as the endless memories. Theres been so many highs and lows along with a shit load of injuries. There’s been so much work put in over the years, that you guys don’t see as well as balancing my family life. Massive thanks to my family for your support over the years. I’ve had some tough times over my career and you guys have always been there by my side no matter what. My beautiful kids you’re the reason I breathe I love you two more than anything in this world. Thanks Amanda and Brooke for making trips over with them both, FaceTiming and including me in what’s going on when i can’t be around. Mum and dad, I wouldn’t be here right now if it wasn’t for you both so thank you for everything 😘. My friends you know who you are, your unconditional love and support means everything to me. And lastly the fans you guys, thanks for your support over the years. I have and will always have time for you guys I would be nothing without you all and your support thanks so much. I’m proud of my career and what I’ve done in this beautiful sport now it’s time for the next chapter which is to move back to the best city in the world Toulouse ( a little biased 😉 ). I will travel the world as a tourist and spend quality time with my beautiful family and friends as well as looking into my family business interests. Plus enjoying some social rugby 10s/7s tournaments around the world 🏉. Now you can follow my NEXT CHAPTER.🤙🏽 Thanks again and god bless. P.s special mention to my 🐶🐶🐶🐶Skippy my og, Minnie mins, Poppy and Boston. 😊

A post shared by Luke Mcalister (@mcalisterluke10) on Jun 30, 2018 at 2:29am PDT