Premiership-winning forward Ryan Matterson announced his immediate retirement from rugby league on Sunday, citing worsening concussion symptoms that have forced an early end to his 11-year career. The 31-year-old former NSW State of Origin representative confirmed the decision on Instagram.
Matterson had not played this season after sustaining another concussion during Parramatta's pre-season training. He had previously reported experiencing headaches and blurred vision.
"The hardest part about chasing a dream is accepting when it’s time to let it go," Matterson wrote on Instagram. "Today, I’m announcing my medical retirement from rugby league. For many years, I’ve battled the effects of concussion and the symptoms that have come with it. I’ve tried to push through, manage it and keep doing what I love. But over time, the symptoms have become harder to live with and unfortunately, they’ve continued to get worse."
Matterson's final game was during a loan spell with the English Super League club Warrington Wolves in September 2025. He remained under contract with the Eels for the remainder of the 2026 season.
