Former Wales centre Uilisi Halaholo has announced his retirement from rugby. The Auckland-born 36-year-old won 10 caps for Wales between 2021 and 2022, having qualified to pull on the red jersey on residency after joining Cardiff in 2016.
Eight years in Cardiff
During his eight years in the Welsh capital, he made over 100 appearances for the Blue and Blacks. Having joined from Waikato after stints with Southland and the Hurricanes, the centre quickly became a fan favourite at the Arms Park.
In 2018, he was part of the Cardiff side that lifted the Challenge Cup after beating Gloucester in the final in Bilbao.
International career
Having first been called up by Wayne Pivac in November 2019, he would eventually make his Test debut during the 2021 Six Nations - playing a key part in his first match in a close-fought win over Scotland at Murrayfield. He would make cameo appearances in the remaining three Six Nations matches as Wales went on to win the title.
Having played five further Tests for Wales in 2021, starting against Canada, Argentina and Australia, his final Test match came against Italy in the surprise 2022 Six Nations defeat.
Return to New Zealand and Tonga
Having battled back from a serious knee injury, he eventually left Cardiff in 2024 to return to New Zealand, turning out for Bay of Plenty in the NPC. Last year, he played for Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup - having been eligible to play for them via his family heritage after a three-year stand down period following his last Wales cap.
Retirement announcement
Announcing his retirement on Instagram with a video montage of his career, Halaholo said: "Glory to God for this Chapter in my life" Excited for the next. Thank you to everyone that's played a part in my playing journey. Ofa atu."
Responding to the post, the Welsh Rugby Union commented: "Congratulations & good luck in the next chapter." Cardiff also paid tribute to his career with a social media post of their own. "Llongyfarchiadau on your retirement @uilisi_halaholo! Once a Blue & Black, Always a Blue & Black," it read.
