Papenhuyzen discusses retirement and future in rugby league

Ryan Papenhuyzen reflects on his first year away from rugby league after retiring following the 2025 season. In an interview, he described his time off as a chance to reset but admitted to missing the game, especially during finals. Papenhuyzen's retirement was influenced by serious injuries, including a significant head knock, which led him to reconsider his future in the sport. While working as a golf caddie, he noted that he watched his former team's games and felt they could thrive without him. He will return to the rugby league spotlight as part of Channel 7's commentary team for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup in October.

• 2:33 AMZero Tackle NRL — Papenhuyzen speaks on early retirement, return potential answered