Wigan Warriors forward Macauley Davies has been forced to retire at the age of 22 on medical grounds.
It was discovered that he suffers from Chiari Malformation.
Chiari Malformation is a condition where lower parts of the brain have been pushed downwards towards the spinal cord.
The pre-existing condition was discovered when Davies visited a specialist as part of the return-to-play head injury protocols after suffering a concussion whilst playing for Swinton Lions.
Davies made his debut for the Warriors against Wakefield in July 2016.
“To be told your dream of playing rugby league since a little boy is over is the hardest thing I have ever had to hear,” he told the club website.
“To have to make a decision if I want to take a risk and carry on with my dream or to finish it is truly heart-breaking.
“For me the risks are too high and I have no choice – I have to accept that my health and life are more important than continuing to play.”
Wigan Warriors Executive Director, Kris Radlinski said: “We are all desperately sorry for Macauley. He has been a pleasure to work with, deeply committed to represent his hometown team. To have his dreams ruined is heart-breaking for him and his family.
Life after sport is inevitable for all players but it is sad when something like this happens to a player at the start of his journey. Macauley is a strong individual and I have no doubt that he will go on to be successful in another field”.
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