The Dolphins have revealed that Daniel Saifiti has decided to retire medically from the NRL due to a shoulder injury that troubled him since Round 8 of last season.
This news strikes a bittersweet chord as one of the leading forwards of the 2020s sees his NRL journey cut short by a persistent shoulder issue.
Since making his debut in 2016, Saifiti has made a name for himself as a formidable enforcer for the Newcastle Knights, accumulating seven selections for the NSW Blues from 2019 to 2021.
Joining the Dolphins in 2025, his appearances were limited to just eight games, yet his toughness and vast experience undoubtedly elevated the performance of the younger forwards.
The CEO of the Dolphins, Terry Reader, expressed gratitude for Saifiti's contributions to the newly established franchise.
"There is no doubt Daniel was the best player in the first eight weeks of last year, and we have really missed him since then," he stated.
"It is sad for it to end this way, but Daniel has had a career he can be proud of, and he will continue to add to the club off the field this year."
Over his decade-long career, Saifiti participated in 191 NRL matches and scored 21 tries.
Despite undergoing surgery and enduring extensive rehabilitation, his shoulder injury ultimately prevented him from returning to the field during his recovery year.