LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Melbourne Storm powerhouse, Christian Welch, has decided to hang up his boots after a decade-long stint in the NRL.
The 29-year-old prop has battled through injuries and shown true grit and determination throughout his career.
Unfortunately, Welch's retirement has been prompted by a serious back injury sustained during a pre-season clash in Fiji in 2023.
Despite the pain and nerve issues, he soldiered on through the season, even making it to the grand final with the help of a cocktail of medications.
"It was a real battle out there, mate.
I was pumping myself full of meds just to get through the game," Welch shared with AAP.
"But my body was screaming at me, and it showed in that grand final performance."
As Welch takes a bow and bids farewell to the NRL, he leaves behind a legacy of toughness and perseverance that will be remembered by fans and teammates alike.