Wigan prop Paul Prescott has been forced to announce his retirement at the age of just 27 due to injury.
Prescott has made 145 appearances for Wigan since making his debut for his hometown club in 2004, but he has been sidelined since playing in this season's opening fixture against Salford.
"After consultation with some of the best surgeons in the country, it is with great sadness that I am forced to announce my retirement as a Rugby League player with immediate effect after failing to overcome a back injury," he said.
"This injury has been a persistent problem since its initial diagnosis in 2008 and the constant rehabilitation, treatment and maintenance a daily battle.
"Unfortunately after countless injections and two lots of surgery, the most recent in March of this year, the specialists have advised me that this can no longer continue.
"I leave the game with an enormous amount of pride at representing the club I supported since the age of five for over 10 seasons and the invaluable memories and winners medals from the 2010 Grand Final and 2011 Challenge Cup.
"The support and advice given to me by the entire medical staff as well as Kris Radlinski, Shaun Wane and Ian Lenagan has been comprehensive and accepted with massive gratitude.
"I will now be giving my support as a fan to a special and highly talented group of players for continued and increased success."
Warriors head coach Wane said: "I feel hugely sorry for Paul that he has been forced to come to this decision through injury.
"Paul has been a model professional and is also a great person and he will be missed on the field by everyone who has played with or against him.
"I have seen Paul become a regular in the Wigan first team squad and he must feel extremely proud to have represented the Club for over 10 years.
"I am certain he will go on to be a huge success in whatever he decides the future holds for him and I wish him all the very best."
Rugby manager Radlinski added: "It was a sad day when Paul sat down with Shaun and myself to deliver his news. It is a day that is inevitable for every sportsman but nothing ever prepares you.
"We have known that Prek has been in discomfort for some time now and believe he has made the right decision for his future. It is up to us now to support him through this difficult period.
"His presence around the Club will be missed but I am confident that his career after the game will be a special one."