Ryan Hall has brought an end to a remarkable two-decade career in rugby league, stepping away from the sport at the age of 38 following an illustrious spell that saw him become one of the game's greatest try-scorers.
The winger first pulled on a Leeds Rhinos shirt in 2007 and went on to establish himself as a cornerstone of the club's success, claiming six Super League titles during his initial tenure. His career took him across the globe and through several clubs, but he returned to Headingley in 2024 to complete his playing days, having also guided Hull KR to an appearance at Old Trafford during the previous campaign.
Across his professional journey, Hall accumulated more than 500 appearances and crossed the try line on 275 occasions in Super League competition. That tally places him second on the all-time Super League try-scoring list, a position he holds behind Leigh's Josh Charnley, underlining his status among the league's elite finishers.
The veteran winger will enjoy a three-month testimonial window beginning in December, which will include one final outing in a friendly fixture against Hull FC. Following his retirement from playing, Hall will transition into a commercial position at Headingley, remaining connected to the club he has called home for much of his career.
Announcing his decision on Friday, Hall reflected on his two decades in the sport with evident satisfaction.
I'm officially retiring from playing rugby league. I think the time's right that I hang up the boots. I've done it for 20 years and I've loved every minute of it.
He continued by acknowledging the club's strategic direction and his own contentment with stepping aside.
The club's in a good position to go with the youth, that's the natural progression in rugby league. I've always wanted the best for the club at heart and if the decision is to go with the youth at this point in time, that suits me down to a tee because I have had 20 years of loving every second of it.
A career spanning continents
Hall's journey extended beyond Leeds and Hull KR. Between 2018 and 2020, he spent two seasons with Sydney Roosters in the NRL, though that chapter proved less fruitful than his time in Super League. He signed with Hull KR ahead of the 2021 campaign before his homecoming to Leeds in 2024 allowed him to finish his career where it had begun.
His international credentials were equally impressive. Hall earned 40 caps for England, during which he scored 39 tries, and represented Great Britain on two occasions during the 2019 Lions tour of the southern hemisphere, cementing his place among the game's most decorated players.
