After a 12-year career spanning two clubs, Majak Daw has today announced his retirement from AFL football effective immediately.

Daw joined the Demons in March 2021, during the Pre-Season Supplemental Selection period, after 11 years and 54 games for North Melbourne.

Despite not making an appearance for Melbourne at AFL level, Daw has been a consistent performer in the VFL over his two years in the red and blue.

Daw said he was extremely proud of what he has achieved during his time in AFL system.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that North Melbourne and Melbourne Football Club have provided me over the last twelve years," Daw said.

“I walk away from the game with immense pride in what I’ve been able to achieve and the challenges I’ve been able to overcome.

“With my current injury troubles, I’ve taken the opportunity to reflect on where I’m at and where I’m heading and in speaking with my management and the club, we’ve all agreed that the timing is right for me to retire from the game.

“By stepping away at this stage of the season I can focus on the next stage of my life and spend much more time on my most important and favourite job, being a loving and caring father to my son Hendrix.

“I would like to thank my family, friends, teammates, coaches and the wider football community for their support and care during my time in the industry. I walk away from the game with life-long memories, friendships and real pride in what I’ve achieved.”

GM - Football Performance Alan Richardson thanked Daw for his contribution to the Demons over the past couple of years.

“Majak should leave the game incredibly proud of what he’s been able to achieve across his AFL career,” said Richardson.

“Maj’s career has had its highs and lows, but to represent his family and the Sudanese community in the manner in which he has, over the course of an 11-year period, is something he should be really proud of.

“Unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to have an on-field impact at AFL level with Melbourne, but to have returned himself to a position to be able to compete and train at the highest level is testament to Majak’s determination.

“Given his current injury struggles and opportunities that are currently presenting outside of footy, Majak, his management and the club are aligned in the belief that it is the right time for Maj to retire.

“On behalf of the Melbourne Football Club, I would like to thank Majak for his service over the past two seasons and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Born in Sudan, Daw was the first Sudanese-Australian player to be drafted by an AFL club when North Melbourne picked him in the 2009 Rookie Draft.

He debuted for North Melbourne in 2013, going on to play 54 games and kick 43 goals as a key forward with the Roos.