Matt Scott breaks down at emotional retirement press conference

Cowboys veteran Matt Scott has broken down at a press conference where he announced his plan to retire after 16 years at the top level.

Matt Scott wipes away a tear.

Cowboys, Maroons and Kangaroos champion Matt Scott will retire from rugby league at season’s end.

The 33-year-old debuted as an 18-year-old in 2004 and has gone on to make 263 appearances for the Cowboys across 16 seasons.

He broke down at a press conference while announcing the news.

“I am still extremely passionate about this club and the game of rugby league, but 16 years of NRL has taken its toll on my body and it’s time to stop,” Scott said.

Live stream the 2019 NRL Telstra Premiership on KAYO SPORTS. Every game of every round live & anytime on your TV or favourite device. Get your 14 day free trial >

Cowboys Director of Football Peter Parr described Scott as one of the most influential figures in the history of the North Queensland Cowboys. He ranks third all-time for the club in games played at 263, behind only Johnathan Thurston (294) and Matthew Bowen (270).

Scott was co-captain with Thurston when the Cowboys won the competition in 2015 and was Dally M Prop of the Year and Captain of the Year that season.

“In my opinion Matt Scott ranks as the number one forward ever to don a Cowboys jersey,” Parr said.

“There is absolutely no doubt that at the peak of his powers he was unrivalled at the best front rower in the world.

“Matt was a major contributor to the most successful era of this club’s history. Not many people can say they were one of the most influential people in the best era of their club.

“He’s had an amazing career, one he and his family should be extremely proud of and a career the people of North Queensland should be thankful they were able to witness.”

Matt Scott. Picture: Alix Sweeney

Scott played 22 games for both Australia and Queensland and was a key component of the Maroons’ eight consecutive Origin series wins between 2006 and 2013.

He has been named on the Cowboys’ benchfor Saturday’s clash with South Sydney in Townsville.

MATT SCOTT’S RUGBY LEAGUE CAREER

North Queensland Debut: Rd 19, 2004 vs Parramatta.

NRL games: 263

Origin appearances: 22

Tests: 22

Won 2015 NRL premiership

2013 rugby league World Cup winner

2011 Dally M prop of the year

2015 Dally M captain of the year

— with AAP