Leinster Rugby have announced that Luke Fitzgerald will retire from professional rugby with immediate effect.

The 28-year-old has walked away from the game on medical advice after suffering a neck injury during the Guinness PRO12 final against Connacht.

Fitzgerald made his Leinster debut in September 2006 and went on to win three Heineken Cups, a Challenge Cup and three PRO12 titles.

"I've had a wonderful rugby career which makes it easy for me to move on to the next stage of my life," Fitzgerald told Leinster's official website. "It's been an amazing journey in which I got to experience the highs and lows that come with professional sport and I have learned a huge amount from each experience. I'm now building on that foundation through completing my business degree.

"I'm very thankful for the opportunities I have had, the people with whom I've worked and the lifelong friends I have made. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the medical staff and coaches I've worked with throughout my career and at Blackrock College.

"It's been an honour and a privilege to represent my province, my country and the British and Irish Lions during my career and I'm glad to finish my career as a 'one club man'. The support I got whilst playing for all three teams during the good times and the tough times is something I'll cherish and never forget for the rest of my life."

Fitzgerald, who made 154 appearances for Leinster, also won the Six Nations and a Grand Slam with Ireland, earning 34 caps.