Former Blue and Giant Zac Williams has called time on his AFL career after over a decade at the top level.
Williams, 32, announced his retirement in a post to social media on Sunday, writing "It's been a privilege to play the game I love so much for so long and I'm looking forward to my next chapter".
The Wiradjuri defender made nine AFL appearances for Carlton in his final season this year, bringing his total to 183 games over 14 seasons.
Following an injury-impacted year and limited opportunity in the Blues' top level side, Williams was delisted by the club at the end of the 2026 season.
He had fallen out of favour when new coach Josh Fraser took the reins as head coach following Michael Voss' departure early in the year.
Rival clubs were reportedly showing their interest in Williams for 2027, notably the Swans, ahead of Williams annouicing his decision.
"Well, after 14 years it's all said and done. Decided to call it time on my AFL career and retire," Williams wrote to social media on Sunday.
"I'm so grateful for the people I have formed relationships with through my career. To the Giants and Carlton, can not thank you enough for supporting me through the ups and downs and giving me a chance to play at the highest level."
"Thank you to my family for supporting me all the way through to this point. Wouldn't have made it with out them. So many other people to thank which I will do over time but thank you to the wider AFL community for embracing me.
"It's been a privilege to play the game I love so much for so long and I'm looking forward to my next chapter!"
A member of GWS' academy, Williams eventually landed at the club via the rookie draft in 2012.
He would play 113 games for the Giants before a move to Carlton ahead of the 2021 season.
His time at the Blues was marred by injury, including an ACL which saw him miss the club's campaign which led to a drough-breaking preliminary final appearance.
A fractured larynx in a VFL game curtailed Williams' most recent season.
Towards the end of his career, the noted rebounder added a new dimension to his game with a successful shift into Carlton's forward line.
He played his 150th game in a win over Richmond in 2024.
In 2025, Williams played for the Indigenous All Stars in the side's return to the footy calendar after more than a decade.
