A Farewell to a Premiership Ruckman
Ivan Soldo, the former premiership ruckman, has officially announced his retirement from the Australian Football League (AFL) at the age of 30. The news has sent waves of emotion through the football community, with many players, fans, and club officials expressing their admiration for his career.
Soldo played 57 games for the Richmond Tigers from 2015 to 2023, including a memorable 2019 Grand Final victory where he contributed significantly to the team’s success. His time at the club was marked by dedication, resilience, and a strong work ethic that earned him respect among teammates and supporters alike.
After leaving Richmond, Soldo joined Port Adelaide in 2024, but his tenure there was cut short due to persistent injuries. In February, he suffered a serious ACL rupture that ruled him out of the entire 2026 season. Despite these challenges, Soldo remained committed to his sport and continued to support his teammates.
In a heartfelt statement released by Port Adelaide, Soldo expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in his journey. “I just want to say thank you to everyone at the club – players, coaches, staff, and our supporters,” he said. “It’s been a privilege to be part of this club and to have had the opportunity to play at this level.”
He also reflected on his time at Richmond, where he spent almost a decade. “I spent almost 10 years there, and it played a huge role in shaping my career and who I am,” he added. “I’ve got a lot of respect for the people, the success we shared, and everything that came with that period.”
Soldo acknowledged the difficulties he faced throughout his career, saying, “It’s not how I would have hoped things would play out, and there have been challenges along the way, but I’m proud of what I was able to give and the experiences I’ve had.” He also thanked his teammates and the fans for their unwavering support.
Port Adelaide’s football boss, Ben Rutten, praised Soldo for his contributions. “On behalf of the entire club, we wish Ivan all the best for his next phase of life and thank him for his service to Port Adelaide,” Rutten said. “Despite some challenges with his body over the past few seasons, Ivan has shown commitment and care for the club and his teammates. He can always be proud to have been a premiership ruckman for Richmond – an achievement that will always be part of his story.”
Tributes from the AFL Community
The AFL world quickly responded to Soldo’s retirement, with many players and fans expressing their admiration. Trent Cotchin, Zak Butters, Oleg Markov, Hugo Ralphsmith, Dion Prestia, and Noah Balta were among those who took to social media to congratulate him.
Soldo posted a series of photos on social media, writing: “Thank you for the memories over the past 13 years.” His girlfriend also shared a heartfelt tribute, stating: “Truly end of an era. Forever your #1 fan. Some of our moments over the last few years… so proud of you. It’s been a wild journey, but such a privilege to watch you over the years.”
The official Richmond account also paid tribute, stating: “A massive congrats to 2019 Richmond premiership player, Ivan Soldo, who has announced his AFL retirement. Soldo played 57 games for the Tigers from 2015-2023 and kicked a goal in the 2019 Grand Final victory.”
A Legacy That Will Live On
Soldo’s career may have come to an end, but his legacy as a dedicated athlete and team player will continue to inspire future generations. From his time at Richmond to his brief stint at Port Adelaide, he left a lasting impact on the clubs he represented and the people he worked alongside.
As he moves on to the next chapter of his life, the football community will always remember the passion, perseverance, and pride he brought to the game. His journey serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes face and the strength it takes to overcome them.
