Rugby: Dan Carter retires, it was 'Maradona oval ball'

 Dan Carter retires from professional rugby after 19 years of career.

The 39-year-old opening half, winner of the World Cup with the All Blacks in 2011 and 2015, has announced his farewell to competitive activity via a note on his social networks.

    Carter leaves rugby playing with the record for the highest number of points scored in international test matches, 1,598, 350 more than runner-up, Jonny Wilkinson.

    Carter has been named 'Player of the Year' by the international federation, an award that in the field of rugby is equivalent to the Golden Ball of football, on three occasions, equaling the record held by another All Black, Richie McCaw.

    Carter, who in the past has been called the 'Maradona of rugby' and is considered the best opening half, and therefore # 10, of all time, after retiring from the national team, played three years in Racing 92 Paris and two more seasons in Japan at the Kobe Steelers.

A few months ago he returned to New Zealand for a short period with the Auckland Blues, keeping the intention of ending his career playing at home.

    "I officially retire from rugby - wrote Carter on Twitter -. A sport that I played for 32 years, which formed the person I have become today. I can only thank all the people who have been involved in my adventure, with a special thought to the fans. Rugby will always be part of my life. Thank you. "

(HANDLE).