Johnny Sexton said the "sadness and frustration" of Ireland's World Cup knock-out will stay with him for a long time as he released a statement on his retirement.
The captain, who in March 2022 announced he would step away from professional rugby at the end of the World Cup, hangs up his boots after winning 119 Ireland caps, six Lions caps and playing for Leinster 189 times.
Such was his form and fitness levels during the tournament in France, in which he started all five games, there was some speculation that he could opt to stay on for one more year.
But in a post in Instagram, he thanked those who had helped him in his career.
He is due to take up a position as a commercial manager with a glass and metal packaging firm.
"Retirement is never an easy next step for any professional athlete. It is especially hard after the rollercoaster of emotions from the last few weeks in France," wrote the 38-year-old, whose side lost 28-24 to New Zealand in the last-eight two weeks ago.
"The sadness and frustration we couldn't progress further remains, they will for a long time to come but the overarching feeling is the pride I felt playing with such a committed and talented group of players.
"The best group I have been lucky enough to be a part of……on and off the pitch. Leaving these players and these coaches is what is making retirement so tough.
"I’ve said it many times before but there’s no feeling like playing in front of a home Irish crowd and that’s what it felt like in Bordeaux, Nantes and in Paris on those three special Saturdays."
Sexton had two stints with Leinster between 2006 to 2023, either side of a spell at Racing 92 from 2013 to 2015.
He won the Champions Cup four times, the URC six times and the Challenge Cup with Leinster. He has four Six Nations titles and was World Rugby Player of the Year in 2018.
He added: "I want to thank my team-mates, both for Leinster and Ireland, for everything they have given to me.
"The last season was one of the most enjoyable of my career and it makes it even more special to do so with people you care about, friends who will stay a part of my life in the future.
"To all the teachers, coaches, support staff and all those who encouraged and supported my career starting out in Bective, St. Mary’s College, club and school, for over 30 years, thank you for everything.
"To the supporters of Leinster, Racing, the British & Irish Lions and Ireland - with whom I was proud to share my journey - thank you for your faith and unwavering support.
"To my family, my parents, brothers and sister who nurtured my love of the game and instilled my drive, I couldn’t have made this journey without you.
"Finally to my wife Laura and our children, your unconditional love helped inspire me through the ups and downs of life and I am incredibly excited about our next chapter together.
"By far my proudest moments were getting to play with my kids watching on.
"Four years ago we sat down as a squad and spoke about what we wanted to achieve. Our main motivation and objective was to inspire the nation. I think we achieved that. We lost, but we won."
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