In an emotional and historic moment at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Collingwood All-Pro midfielder Scott Pendlebury stunned fans, media, and even teammates during a surprise press conference held this afternoon.
Standing on the hallowed turf of the MCG, with a Collingwood jersey draped over his shoulder and a visible glint of emotion in his eye, Pendlebury delivered the words that shook the footy world:
“It is done. Today, I officially announce my retirement from AFL football.”
The silence that followed was deafening.
Pendlebury, 37, leaves the game as one of Collingwood’s most decorated and beloved figures. With over 400 games, a premiership, multiple All-Australian honours, and a record-breaking captaincy tenure, his legacy is cemented as one of the greatest to ever pull on the black and white.
Even head coach Craig McRae appeared caught off guard, later admitting:
“We spoke about it tentatively during the season, but I didn’t expect today. That’s Scott, though. Always on his terms. Always with class.”
Pendlebury’s decision comes just days after Collingwood’s season ended in a heartbreaking preliminary final loss. Many had expected him to push for one more year, but in his words:
“I’ve given everything to this club and this game. It’s time to let the next generation rise — and for me to begin a new chapter, wherever that may lead.”
Fans, who gathered in thousands at the MCG for what was originally billed as an end-of-season fan day, were visibly emotional, erupting into chants of “Pendles! Pendles!” as he left the stage.
Social media has since exploded, with tributes pouring in from past legends, rival clubs, and sports icons around the world.
Scott Pendlebury’s next move remains unknown, but early whispers suggest roles in coaching, commentary, or even a return to professional basketball — his first sporting love — may be on the horizon.
Whatever lies ahead, today marks the end of an era for Collingwood — and the AFL.
IT IS DONE. A legend signs off.
