In a major announcement for women's rugby league, Queensland icon Ali Brigginshaw has confirmed her retirement from State of Origin, choosing to dedicate her final playing year entirely to the Brisbane Broncos.
An Emotional Farewell to the Maroon Jersey
The 36-year-old playmaker revealed the difficult decision came after considerable reflection during the off-season. Brigginshaw stated she will now pour all her energy into the Broncos' upcoming NRLW campaign, which she has already confirmed will be the last of her illustrious career.
"After many restless nights over the off-season, I have decided to end my time in the Origin arena and focus all my energy on the Broncos for the upcoming season, which will be my last in rugby league," Brigginshaw said.
She expressed profound gratitude for her time representing Queensland, a period that included 13 official State of Origin appearances, captaining the side in 12 of those matches. Her service began even earlier, with seven interstate games before the women's contest was officially branded as Origin.
"I can’t put into words what playing for Queensland meant to me. Pulling on the Maroon jersey made me feel bulletproof," she shared. "Historic moments, amazing teams and great mates. Thank you Maroons family for all of it."
A Legacy That Inspired a Generation
Tributes have flowed for the veteran, highlighting her monumental impact on the women's game. Maroons coach Nathan Cross praised Brigginshaw's unique qualities that defined the Origin spirit.
"We respect and understand Ali’s decision to focus on the Broncos in her final year of rugby league," Cross said. "I’ve marvelled at Ali’s performances at club and representative level for a long time now. Ali was made for Origin … the arena ignited a spark inside her, and her toughness, skill and passion lifted her team and those around her."
Queensland Rugby League CEO Ben Ikin echoed these sentiments, emphasising Brigginshaw's role as a trailblazer. "It’s been a privilege to watch Ali brilliantly ply her trade over the past 15 years, what a player," Ikin said. "She is an icon in women’s rugby league and there are now thousands of young girls across Queensland who dream of wearing the Maroon jersey because of what Ali achieved."
One Last Mission with the Broncos
With her representative career now concluded, Brigginshaw's immediate goal is clear: to finish at the pinnacle of the club game. She aims to lead the Brisbane Broncos to back-to-back NRLW premierships, providing a fairytale ending to her domestic career.
A longer-term possibility remains on the horizon. The end of 2026 could see a Rugby League World Cup, but it is uncertain whether the 36-year-old will put her hand up for selection or if national selectors will call upon her experience for one final campaign.
For now, the focus is squarely on Brisbane. The Broncos and their fans will have the chance to celebrate one of the game's greats as she embarks on a final club season, freed from the physical demands of Origin, and determined to add one more chapter to her legendary story.
