Shaun Johnson in tears during emotional guard of honour for farewell match in New Zealand

Shaun Johnson struggled to hold back tears during his guard of honour as he walked onto the Warriors’ home ground for the last time.

Johnson announced his retirement from the NRL on August 5 after struggling with injuries throughout the 2024 season.

The Warriors’ round 25 clash against the Bulldogs marked his final match at home, with Go Media Stadium renamed to Shaun Johnson Stadium.

Johnson walked out to a guard of honour with his family and tears were evident as soon as he appeared on the ground.

The retiring superstar waved to the crowd and shook his head in amazement at the packed ground.

“There are tears in the eyes of this champion, what a moment for Shaun Johnson. It’s hit him … that’s raw emotion,” commentator Andrew Voss said on Fox League.

“It’s pretty hard when you’ve given your life and your all … he’s been an outstanding example for New Zealand people this bloke,” Steve ‘Blocker’ Roach added.

The halfback will go down as one of the Warriors’ greatest-ever players and went close to winning the Dally M medal last year after leading the side to finals.

Johnson has currently played 266 games in the NRL with 222 of those for the Warriors.