South Sydney forward Ben Lovett has been forced into premature retirement at just 23, with persistent knee damage ending his playing career on medical advice.
Lovett, a Parkes Spacemen junior who made his NRL debut in 2023, suffered the injury during the Rabbitohs’ NSW Cup Grand Final win that same year.
Despite undergoing multiple operations and more than 18 months of rehabilitation, the second-rower confirmed he would not be able to return to the level he aspired to.
“This decision has not been made lightly”
“This decision has not been made lightly. Following medical guidance and my rehabilitation journey, retiring on medical grounds is what is best for my long-term health and quality of life,” Lovett said.
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“I love the game of Rugby League and this Club, and it has been an incredible honour to pull on the Rabbitohs jersey in the NRL. A real highlight being 2023, living out my dream by making my NRL debut and winning a competition with NSW Cup.”
Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly paid tribute to Lovett’s commitment: “Ben’s dedication to the Club since joining us in 2019 has been unrivalled. His commitment to his injury rehabilitation has been a model of persistence for his teammates and young sportsmen or sportswomen coming through who face difficult injuries. His resilience and tenacity have been a lesson to us all.”
Lovett, who played three first-grade games, leaves behind a legacy of community impact as much as on-field potential. He collected multiple accolades in 2024, including the Souths Cares award and the Bob McCarthy Clubperson of the Year. While his career ended sooner than expected, he has already dipped into coaching with the Rabbitohs’ Jersey Flegg Cup side and plans to remain with the club in a developmental role.