- Ryan Girdler enjoyed a distinguished playing career with Penrith and the Eels
- He hung up his boots in 2004 before pursuing a career in broadcasting
Rugby league legend Ryan Girdler has announced he will be stepping down from his role with Triple M ahead of the 2025 NRL season.
The former premiership-winning five-eighth began working with the radio station back in 2012.
But according to Code Sports, the former Penrith star has made the decision to step away from his role in order to support his family.
His father-in-law, who lives in Europe, is understood to be unwell and Girdler wants to support his wife, Katya.
‘It’s been an amazing journey at Triple M working alongside some great and very talented people,’ the former football star said
‘I’ll miss it but at the moment I have other things to do and I could be away for an extended period.’
Ryan Girdler has stepped away from his role on Triple M as he looks to support his wife Katya
Girdler has worked in the media in multiple capacities since retiring from professional footy back in 2004
The former centre enjoyed a distinguished career with the Panthers and the Eels, notably guiding Penrith to the 2003 Premiership
Girdler enjoyed a distinguished playing career returning 101 tries across 204 NRL appearances for the Panthers before hanging up his boots in 2004.
He also represented Australia and New South Wales Blues and notably holds the record as the individual to score the most points in a single Origin game (32) during the Blues 56-16 victory against the Maroons back in 2000.
Girdler, who was born in Bathurst, has grown to becoming one of the most loved and respected figures in rugby league for his commentary and knowledge of the game.
‘We fully support Girds and his decision to put his family first in 2025,’ Triple M’s head of sport, Ewan Giles, said.
‘I want to thank him for everything he has done for Triple M NRL and we wish him well for the next stage of his life. He is and will always be a member of the Triple M NRL team.’
Triple M have already taken steps to replace the former Penrith and Eels star with Nathan Hindmarsh set to take over ahead of the 2025 season.
Hindmarsh, who made 330 appearances for Parramatta during his career, will now join up with Tony Squires and Wade Graham on the Saturday Scrum show. Since retiring, the former second-row has worked as a pundit for Fox League, regularly appearing on the Matty Johns Show.
‘I’m looking forward to it. It’ll be fun in what’s going to be a great season,’ Hindmarsh said.
‘I’m a bit nervous but it’s probably a little more relaxed than TV without the camera in your face. Hopefully not too relaxed in case I say something I probably shouldn’t say.’
