The former British and Irish Lions centre, who won 94 caps for Wales, made a total of 64 European appearances between December 2007 and January this year for five different clubs across the continent, scoring 13 tries.

"The time feels right," he said on social media. "As I reach the end of my professional playing career, I'm retiring with an immense sense of gratitude for what the sport has provided me. Above all, the game has provided a sense of belonging, friendship and healthy competition."

Roberts started his club career with Cardiff, spending six seasons with the Welsh side and playing 30 European games for them, before switching to French club Racing Metro 92 for the 2013/14 and 2014/15 campaigns.

Five seasons followed in England – three for Harlequins and two for Bath Rugby – with the former club providing his best European return of five tries in 14 matches, before he returned to Wales in for his final three European campaigns, with Dragons.

"It allowed me to experience several tight-knit club families, as well as enjoy a wonderful lifestyle in some of the world’s best cities outside of Wales, namely Paris, London, Bath, Cape Town and Sydney," added Roberts, who also played for South African side Stormers and Australian outfit Waratahs.

"The playing experiences at each club were unique in their own way and I'm delighted that each environment provided opportunity to learn, improve and challenge myself, from my first game for Cardiff until my last for the Waratahs 16 years later.

"I've had the privilege of playing alongside and against many of the modern-day greats, not just great players, but great men. For a short while, we have the best job in the world. Never forget it."

Jamie Roberts, an EPCR Challenge Cup winner with Cardiff Blues in 2010, has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 35.