A former Salford Red Devils player has broken the news that he has decided to retire from rugby league, sharing an emotional statement about the decision and his journey in the sport.
That man is Tim Lafai, who left the club earlier this year in order to return to Australia and be with his family where it was thought that he might resume his playing career.
Lafai has put any of those thoughts to bed by taking to social media to confirm that he has hung up the boots and retired from rugby league, but not before offering a message of thanks and reflection.
It’s sad to consider that the last few months of his professional career would have been ones of uncertainty at Salford Red Devils but he retires from the sport as one of the finest players in the club’s history, and with a wonderful NRL and international career behind him as well.
Salford Red Devils confirm retirement of Tim Lafai
❤️ Sending our best wishes to Tim Lafai, who has announced his retirement from professional rugby league.
Legend forever! 👹 🇼🇸 pic.twitter.com/4Q24YLXSaR
— Salford Red Devils 👹 (@SalfordDevils) April 16, 2025
It was first revealed that Lafai had left Salford by CEO Chris Irwin who confirmed the centre had returned to Australia, something that helped relieve some of the Red Devils’ cap issues but more importantly reunited Lafai with his family.
The 33-year-old had been away from his family and offered an emotional goodbye to Salford when the news was officially confirmed, speaking on the memories, lessons, and friendships.
He’s now taken to Instagram again to confirm his retirement with a longer statement.
It read: “First of all may all the glory go to god, As I officially step away from the game and into retirement from Professional rugby league I want to take a moment to reflect and express my deepest thanks.
“First and foremost, to my family mum,dad for taking us out of our small island of Samoa to give us a better life here in Australia, both of you will always be my first coach/trainer island style, Caleb (my hero and my older brother)my beautiful strong sisters (Bes, Dars and Sisi) —thank you for being my rock through every high and low. Your love, support, and sacrifices have carried me further than I ever could’ve gone alone. And to my amazing beautiful wife Jax —thank you for standing by me through every season, injury, comeback, and challenge. Your belief in me never wavered, even when mine did. I know I’ve put you through some hard times and haven’t been the best version of myself self through my career but you stayed by my side regardless You’ve been my strength behind the scenes, and I’m endlessly grateful. You’ve given me 5 beautiful kids that lights up my world and gave me that reminder I needed when things got tough. But also to momma Mooy, you’ve always been that other person I could turn to when things got tough, for that I’m grateful.”
Credit: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
“This journey hasn’t been easy. There have been setbacks, tough losses, injuries, and moments where quitting felt easier than pushing forward. I’ve failed many times along the way but never quit, every obstacle made me stronger, and every challenge taught me something I’ll carry for life. The road to this point demanded everything I had—and I gave it all.
“Now, as I step away from the game I love, I do so with peace and pride. I’m grateful for every moment, every lesson, and every person who helped me along the way. It’s time for new memories, more time with my loved ones, and to finally enjoy the next chapter in my life with my family.
If I’ve forgotten anyone forgive me, and know I appreciate you all.
Thank you @nrl_bulldogs @nrl_dragons @salfordreddevilsrlfc @toa_samoa_official for the opportunities you gave me, forever grateful and grateful always. God is great always.”
Salford also confirmed his decision, posting: “Sending our best wishes to Tim Lafai, who has announced his retirement from professional rugby league. Legend forever.”
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