LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
New Zealand bid adieu to their 'epic' hero Shaun Johnson in a tear-jerking farewell that had the NRL world reaching for the tissues.
The pre-game spectacle before the Warriors' showdown with the Bulldogs was nothing short of legendary, as one of the country's finest rugby league talents took his final bow.
The retiring Warriors icon, Shaun Johnson, was visibly emotional as he soaked up the spine-tingling atmosphere in his last home game as a club stalwart.
The match against the Bulldogs momentarily turned into a heartfelt tribute to the inspirational halfback, leaving fans from both the Warriors and New Zealand in awe of his remarkable career.
In what has been a tough season for the Warriors, who fell short of the finals despite their strong showing in the previous year's preliminary final, Johnson himself experienced highs and lows.
From being named Dally M halfback of the year to finishing as the runner-up in 2023, the 33-year-old's farewell was a fitting send-off for a player who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
The game also marked the end of the road for Addin Fonua-Blake, who is set to join the Sharks next season, and Jazz Tevaga, who is rumored to be considering a move to Manly.
Both players received a warm send-off from the crowd, but it was Johnson who stole the show with his emotional display on the field.
As the sun sets on Johnson's illustrious career, the rugby league world is left with a lasting memory of a true Kiwi legend bidding farewell in a manner befitting of his status in the game.