Western Bulldogs midfielder and Melbourne premiership player James Harmes makes shock retirement call on eve of AFL season
The 30-year-old has broken the shock news to his teammates after taking time away from the club.
Western Bulldogs midfielder James Harmes has made a bombshell retirement call just days out from the start of the 2026 AFL season.
Harmes, 30, has been working through some personal issues and recently took indefinite leave from the club.
He trained before Christmas but did not return after the three-week break.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Harmes reportedly told his teammates of his retirement decision on Tuesday (today).
Harmes joined the Bulldogs ahead of the 2024 season after a successful 152-game stint at Melbourne that included the 2021 premiership.
He played 13 games for the Bulldogs in 2025 with his last game coming in the Dogs’ thrilling Round 16 win over Sydney at the SCG.
In that game Harmes had 21 touches, slotted a goal and, as per usual, was one of his team’s best tacklers.
He battled concussion issues throughout the year but the club said he missed the following week’s game, against North Melbourne, due to illness.
He did not appear at AFL level again.
Harmes’ three-year contract was due to expire at season’s end.
His sudden retirement means the Bulldogs have a vacant spot on their list which they will be able to fill via the AFL’s pre-season supplemental selection period (SSP).
The window for signing SSP players closes on March 2.
Harmes was drafted way back in the 2014 rookie draft and made his AFL debut in 2015.
He finishes his AFL career with 174 games to his name.
Originally published on 7NEWS Sport
