Former NSW Origin centre James Roberts retires at 29

The Wests Tigers season ended in an absolute disaster on Sunday afternoon, copping another blow when a former Origin star ended his career.

James Roberts had a brilliant career. Photo: AAP Image/Dave Hunt

Tigers veteran James Roberts has pulled the curtain on a 12-year NRL career, announcing his i

ummediate retirement.

The 29-year-old made his debut with the Rabbitohs in 2011, going on to make 166 first grade appearances, scoring 77 tries.

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Roberts played for the Rabbitohs, Panthers, Titans, Broncos and most recently the Tigers in an illustrious NRL career, despite controverisal moments.

The outside back represented NSW in State of Origin in 2018, playing all three games in the Blues’ series victory.

James Roberts was chaired off the field. Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

He was also named Dally M Centre of the Year in 2015 and made three appearances for the Indigenous All Stars.

“James has done some amazing things in rugby league and was one of those players who could bring a crowd to its feet,” Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe said in a club statement.

“He’s had more than his fair share of injuries but he fought hard to get himself right after back surgery earlier this year.

“All of us here at the Wests Tigers wish Jimmy and his family all the very best in the coming years. Thank you for your contribution to our club and to rugby league.”

But in recent years, Roberts has struggled, having battled through Covid and revealed he considered walking away during the 2020 season.

Earlier in his career, Roberts had well documented issues with alcohol abuse, and had three stints at rehabilitiation clinics to address alcohol and depression issues.

He was also sacked from the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Penrith Panthers as a result of off-field issues during his 12-year NRL career.

Originally published as Former NSW Origin centre James Roberts retires at 29