Melbourne’s Majak Daw announces immediate retirement after tumultuous and inspiring AFL career
Majak Daw’s inspiring football journey has come to an end as the first Sudanese-born AFL player retires.
Most important points:
- Majak Daw played 54 AFL games with North Melbourne between 2013 and 2020
- He joined Melbourne in 2021 but did not play for the Demons
- Daw says he will now turn his attention to “being a loving and caring father to my son Hendrix”
The 31-year-old has ended his 12-year career with immediate effect.
It follows new injury issues that are holding up a potential fairytale return with Melbourne.
Daw made 54 appearances for North Melbourne before being picked up by the Demons for the 2021 season, but was unable to complete his roster.
Daw survived a fall from the Bolte Bridge in 2018 and recovered from serious hip and pelvic injuries to return to play AFL for the Kangaroos in 2020.
An injury to Melbourne captain Max Gawn two weeks ago opened up a potential vacancy for Daw as a ruckman for the Demons.
However, Daw sustained an injury himself and was unable to further flesh out his progress in the VFL with the Casey Demons.
“I am extremely grateful for the opportunities North Melbourne and Melbourne have given me over the past 12 years,” Daw said in a statement from the Demons.
“I walk away from the competition with immense pride in what I’ve been able to achieve and the challenges I’ve been able to overcome.
“With my current injury issues I have taken the opportunity to reflect on where I am and where I am going and in talks with my management and the club we all agree that the timing is right for me to retire. out of the game.
“I want to thank my family, friends, teammates, coaches and the wider football community for their support and care during my time in the industry. I leave the game with lifelong memories, friendships and genuine pride in what I have accomplished.”
Melbourne football performance manager Alan Richardson praised Daw’s contribution to the Demons.
“Majak should leave the game incredibly proud of what he’s been able to accomplish in his AFL career,” said Richardson.
“Maj’s career has had its highs and lows, but to represent his family and the Sudanese community the way he has, over a span of 11 years, is something he should be really proud of.
“Unfortunately, he has not been able to make an impact on the pitch with Melbourne at AFL level, but to get himself back into a position to compete and train at the highest level is testament to Majak’s determination.
“Given his current injury issues and opportunities currently emerging outside of footy, Majak, his management and the club are aligned in the belief that now is the right time for Maj to retire.”
MONKEY
