Cameron Suafoa retires from rugby

Cam Suafoa has announced his retirement from rugby after revealing that his cancer has spread and is now terminal.

In an emotional video statement, the Blues forward said he will soon begin chemotherapy, bringing his playing career to an end as he prepares for what he described as a different kind of battle.

Cam Suafoa Retires After Cancer Update

Suafoa said he had decided to retire officially after receiving the news that his illness had worsened.

He told supporters that he would not play again and confirmed that chemotherapy treatment will begin in the coming days.

Blues Career Holds Special Meaning

The Auckland-born forward reflected on fulfilling a childhood dream by representing the Blues, a club he said had always held a special place in his heart.

He recalled his debut against Moana Pasifika as a dream come true and spoke warmly about the environment at the club, describing it as a place he loved being part of. He also highlighted special moments in his career, including scoring tries, sharing the field with close friends and captaining North Harbour.

Cam Suafoa Opens Up On Surgery And Recovery

Suafoa also detailed the scale of the surgery he underwent during his cancer battle. He said doctors removed the tumour along with three ribs, shaved down part of his spinal vertebrae and fused his spine in an operation that lasted around nine hours.

He described trying to return too quickly from the procedure before fully understanding how serious it had been. Despite the devastating news, his message focused on gratitude for the game, the club and the people around him.