BREAKING NEWS: “I’VE MADE UP MY MIND” – Collingwood Star Bobby Hill Drops Bombshell Retirement Decision
In a stunning development that has rocked the AFL community, Bobby Hill has officially announced his retirement from the AFL, citing ongoing personal challenges and relationship issues as the driving force behind his decision.
The 2023 Norm Smith Medallist informed teammates and club officials earlier today that he has “made up [his] mind” to step away from the game indefinitely, effective immediately. The decision has reportedly blindsided senior coach Craig McRae and the broader coaching staff at Collingwood Football Club, who had remained hopeful of his return.
Hill, 26, has endured a difficult period over the past year, spending extended time away from football on personal leave. While the club had publicly maintained that there was “no pressure” on him to rush back, few anticipated such a definitive call.
In a statement released through the club, Hill said the decision was not made lightly.
“I’ve made up my mind. Right now, I need to put my personal wellbeing and family first. Football has given me so much, but I can’t give the game what it deserves while I’m dealing with personal challenges and issues in my relationship. This is the right step for me at this time.”
Hill’s impact at Collingwood was immense despite a relatively short stint at the club. After crossing from GWS, he quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his electrifying pace, forward pressure and ability to produce in big moments. His four-goal performance in the 2023 Grand Final cemented his place in Magpies folklore, earning him the Norm Smith Medal in a premiership triumph that will long be remembered at the AIA Centre.
Coach McRae admitted he was shocked but expressed unwavering support for the small forward.
“Bobby’s wellbeing comes first. We love him as a person more than we value him as a footballer. While we’re disappointed we won’t see him in black and white again for now, we fully respect his decision and will continue to support him.”
Teammates were said to be emotional when Hill addressed the playing group. Several senior players reportedly reached out privately to offer their backing, emphasising that the door would remain open should he ever wish to return.
The announcement raises questions about Collingwood’s forward structure heading into the new season. Hill’s speed and goal sense were central to the Magpies’ attacking system, and replacing his creativity inside 50 will not be straightforward. However, club officials stressed that the focus remains firmly on supporting Hill rather than on-list implications.
Across the league, tributes have begun pouring in from rival players and clubs, acknowledging Hill’s talent and bravery in prioritising his mental health and personal life over professional success.
While his retirement marks a premature end to a career that promised many more highlights, Hill leaves the game as a premiership player and one of the most exciting small forwards of his era. For now, his focus shifts away from football — and toward rebuilding his personal life.
Whether this is a permanent farewell or a chapter paused remains to be seen. But today, Bobby Hill has made one thing clear: family and wellbeing come first.
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