Serial winner calls time on stellar career

After a career spanning over 300 games, two NRL premierships, two State of Origin series victories and a Rugby League World Cup, James Maloney will call it a day at the end of the 2021 Super League season.

The 35-year-old plies his trade with the Catalans Dragons in France, and hopes to add one more trophy to his already-bursting cabinet before hanging up the boots for good.

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“The time has come to hang up the boots from professional footy,” Maloney said.

“It’s been one hell of a ride and I’ve loved every minute of it.

“Thanks to everyone who has played a part in my career along the way, most importantly my beautiful wife Jess Maloney, who has been there from the start. Now to finish on a great note.

“I’ve had a lot of fun and been very fortunate to have a long career that has given me and my family so many opportunities.

James Maloney announced he will retire at the end of the 2021 Super League season. Picture: Joel Carrett / AAPSource:AAP

“I’m very grateful to the Dragons for the opportunity to come and play over here and for how they have looked after me and the family in difficult circumstances with everything going on in the world, and I hope that I can repay that by finishing this season lifting the trophy.”

Maloney joined the Catalans from the Panthers in 2019, having played made 44 appearances for Penrith.

Catalans coach Steve McNamara paid tribute to the star half, and was hopeful Maloney will propel the team to its maiden Super League premiership.

“Jimmy will be sorely missed by everyone at the club but we understand and respect his decision to retire after an incredible career,” McNamara said.

“His contribution over the last two seasons for the Dragons cannot be overstated and he has a huge desire to now finish the season and his career on a successful note.”

Maloney has two NRL premierships and two State of Origin series victories to his name. Picture: Joel Carrett / AAPSource:AAP

Maloney made his NRL debut with the Melbourne Storm back in 2009, before linking up with the Warriors, where he went on to make 75 appearances, including a grand final in 2011.

A move to the Roosters in 2013 beckoned, where he won his first NRL premiership and notched an incredible 734 points for the Chooks across two seasons.

Maloney made the switch to Cronulla in 2016, adding another premiership to his career before setting off for the Panthers in 2018.

The Orange native was the NRL’s leading point scorer in 2013, 2014 and 2015, and is the Super League’s leading pointscorer in 2021 with 172.

Catalans sits atop the Super League ladder on 32 competition points, with second-placed St Helens, who has three games in hand, on 24 points.

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