Michael Walters has called time on his AFL career after 239 games, effective immediately.
Fremantle announced the news on Thursday, with the veteran forward and fan favourite having last played for the Dockers in the final round of the 2024 home and away season.
His 17th year with the club has been interrupted by a knee injury.
'Sonny' has been a constant, much-loved figure at the Dockers since his debut in 2009 after arriving at the club with pick 53 in the draft.
The WA product out of Midvale and Swan Districts booted 365 majors in his time, had a career-best season of 48 goals during Freo's charge to a maiden grand final appearance in 2013 and earned All Australian selection in 2019 - the same year he was named a life member of the club.
Walters is a five-time leading goal kicker at the Dockers, and falls just short of the club's most capped Indigenous player Michael Johnson's 244 games.
He sits ahead of the likes of Stephen Hill, Antoni Grover and 100-plus-gamers Troy Cook, Dale Kickett, Jeff Famer, Roger Hayden, current skipper Alex Pearce, former no.1 draft pick Des Headland and Danyle Pearce for most games played.
"I have been working my backside off to try and get back to play some form of footy and while mentally I am still committed, unfortunately my body wouldn't allow me to continue playing," Sonny said via a Fremantle Football Club statement.
"I never left a stone unturned, I tried to return and play again at the top level and it just didn't work out."
A well-renowned spiritual and playing list leader, the 34-year-old captained the Indigenous All Stars in their much-anticipated return to the footy calendar in February.
Walters made one last appearance via Freo's WAFL outfit - Peel Thunder - in 2025 last month.
He was withdrawn from the Thunder's side last weekend.
Fremantle high performance manager Phil Merriman said Walters was still being troubled by the knee injury.
"It's really a week-to-week proposition with Sonny, and we just have to track that and see how he goes this week at training to determine his availability," Merriman said last week.
The club paid tribute to the veteran on Thursday.
"Sonny has inspired a generation over his career, not just as a football, but a leader, a mentor and a cultural custodian," Dockers footy boss Joe Brierty said.
"He had the ability to lift those around him, from young teammates to kids in the community, it was something powerful to see firsthand.
"He's played with x-factor, courage, and heart, but he would also lead with deep cultural pride and responsibility, never forgetting where he's come from and who he represents."
Walters played in 13 finals over the course of his career.
"My family has played a big part in my entire footy career," he said.
"Firstly, starting with my Mum, Dad and brother. I still remember waking up for junior footy and my mum had packed my gear and was ready to go with a warm bowl of porridge.
"My Dad, who was my first idol, gave me my passion for footy and has given me feedback on all my games, including right up to my last one this year.
"I've always looked up to my brother and he has always taken care of me and has always been in my corner throughout my entire life.
"While my wife, Marnie, has ridden the bumps with me. We talk about purpose in life and football, and she gave me a purpose, along with my kids as well."
Walters is also known for his advocacy and leadership as an Indigenous player in the game.
He said he took being a role model with both hands.
"After being drafted I saw how people from the community looked up to me and I wanted to be a role model for them to show that if I can make it, they can make it," Walters said.
"Later on in my career I found a purpose and that purpose was to play for the next generation and give them some sort of inspiration.
"I wanted to be an example for kids in my area to let them know that it doesn't matter where you come from or what size you are, if you work hard, you can make it, and I feel I have done that to the best of my ability."
