Queensland Reds fullback Mason Gordon has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 22 due to ongoing concussion issues. In an open letter released on Wednesday, Gordon revealed that he suffered a concussion during pre-season training, which has led to persistent symptoms affecting his ability to play.
Gordon, who is the younger brother of former Wallaby and current Gold Coast Titans player Carter Gordon, expressed his disappointment in not being able to continue his career after receiving medical advice. He reflected on his journey with the Reds, having signed a contract in October with hopes for a bright future in the sport. Despite limited appearances, he made four outings for the Reds this season after transitioning from his debut with the Melbourne Rebels earlier in the year.
He described his decision as difficult but necessary, saying, “This is not how, or when, I anticipated my career concluding.” Gordon’s heartfelt message conveyed gratitude for the experiences he gained during his short time in professional rugby and acknowledged the friendships forged along the way. He also looked forward to supporting the Reds as a fan in the future, citing the strong team culture.
Gordon previously played for the Australian Under-20s in 2023 and had shown promise as a player, even auditioning for a place in the Reds’ squad for the upcoming 2025 season. He expressed his excitement for the next chapter of his life, thanking his friends and family for their unwavering support throughout his journey.