A chronic back injury has forced Richmond ruckman Shaun Hampson to retire from the AFL, effective immediately.

The 30-year-old played 98 AFL games for Carlton and Richmond in a career which began in 2007 at the Blues.

But he has been managing a chronic back condition for the past two seasons, with his last appearance at senior level coming in 2016.

Hampson also made headlines off the field due to his long-term relationship with supermodel Megan Gale.

“Shaun worked bravely and tirelessly to give himself the best chance to overcome this painful injury,” Tigers’ football manager Neil Balme said.

“There is ultimately a point where Shaun must think of his long-term health, rather than just the immediate challenge of playing football.

“It was clear to Shaun and our medical staff that he had reached that point.

“Shaun certainly loves his family and it was a very difficult decision for him to make.

“He is a very popular member of our squad and we thank him for his dedication to our football club.

“We wish Shaun, Megan and their children River and Rosie all the best for the future.”

With tall utility Ben Griffiths having quit before the start of the 2018 season to try his luck as a punter in American football, the Tigers will look to bolster their ruck stocks in the trade period and national draft.

Originally from Mt Gravatt, Queensland, Hampson was selected at pick 17 in the 2006 draft.