SHAUN Hampson's AFL career is over.
The Richmond ruckman has been battling a chronic back condition for the past two seasons.
He announced his immediate retirement to his teammates on Tuesday morning.
The No.17 pick in the 2006 national draft, Hampson played 63 games for Carlton before adding another 35 games to his tally at the Tigers.
"Shaun worked bravely and tirelessly to give himself the best chance to overcome this painful injury," Richmond football manager Neil Balme said.
"There is ultimately a point where Shaun must think of his long-term health, rather than just the immediate challenge of playing football. It was clear to Shaun and our medical staff that he had reached that point."
His decision wasn't entirely unexpected, given the battle with his back that extended into this season.
The 30-year-old had a limited pre-season and managed one early VFL game but has struggled to train consistently since and has been part of the rehabilitation group for much of the season.
Up until last week, it is understood he was still committed to trying to get himself to the point of playing at least in the VFL this season, but knew it was going to be an uphill battle given the nature of his disc problem.
Hampson has made headlines above and beyond his football career thanks to his high-profile relationship with supermodel Megan Gale.
"Shaun certainly loves his family and it was a very difficult decision for him to make," Balme said.
"He is a very popular member of our squad and we thank him for his dedication to our football club.
"We wish Shaun, Megan and their children River and Rosie all the best for the future."
It isn't clear what Hampson plans to do next but it is understood he isn't interested in pursuing a career in coaching.
It is the second retirement the Tigers have experienced this season with fellow big man Ben Griffiths officially hanging up the boots in January.
Griffiths decided to end his AFL career early after being offered a four-year scholarship at the University of Southern California, where he is set to study education while pursuing a career as an American football punter.
Despite struggling with dual concussions in his final year at Punt Road, Griffiths said last week he had completely recovered and his decision to retire was more influenced by his scholarship offer.
The Tigers' big man stocks have taken a hit in recent weeks with tall forward Mabior Chol undergoing surgery to repair a broken foot earlier this month.
Chol is expected to miss up to six more weeks with the injury.
