Wales full-back legend Leigh Halfpenny has announced his retirement from professional rugby. Originally released by Ospreys academy due to size concerns, he made 87 appearances for Cardiff Blues (2007-2014), scoring 568 points. During that stint, he won the Amlin Challenge Cup and Anglo-Welsh Cup before moving to France where he claimed the European Champions Cup with Toulon in 2015.

After playing for Scarlets, Crusaders, and Harlequins, Halfpenny returned to Cardiff in 2025. He joined as both kicking coach and player in September 2025, making his first appearance after 4,347 days against Ulster in December. His last professional match could be the January defeat to Ulster, after Cardiff extended his contract until season's end.

Halfpenny expressed immense pride and gratitude for his rugby career. Former Wales and Lions full-back Neil Jenkins highlighted their special bond, while Rhys Patchell described Halfpenny as "the most diligent professional" and "world-class for almost two decades." Patchell noted his incredible work ethic, comparing him to Clark Kent turning into Superman, completing a remarkable journey where he finished his career where he began.