Queensland Rugby's most-capped No 8, John Roe, has announced his retirement from all rugby, because of a career-ending shoulder injury.

Roe had a shoulder reconstruction in the 2007 off-season and was forced to miss the last three games of the 2008 Investec Super 14 season when a further operation was required on the troublesome left shoulder.

Roe, 31, told team-mates today that the shoulder was not responding to treatment as well as he'd hoped, so he has decided to retire now rather than risk it during the intensive Super 14 season.

"I'd love nothing more than to be part of this team again next year, but not at the risk of being a passenger for all or part of the season. It's better for everyone if I make the call now," said Roe, who has played 107 matches for Queensland since making his debut in 1999.

"When I first started playing rugby I never thought I would represent the Reds and to have played over 100 games is an absolute honour."

Roe rose to become captain of the QR Reds midway through 2005 and led the side through the difficult 2006 and 2007 seasons before making way for Sam Cordingley to lead the team midway through the 2008 season.

Roe played 19 Tests for the Wallabies after making his debut during the 2003 Rugby World Cup. He scored a total of 105 points for his state and 10 Test points.

A qualified doctor, Roe will now concentrate on a career in medicine.

QR Reds coach Phil Mooney paid tribute to the contribution made by John Roe to the Reds and Queensland Rugby, saying his loyalty, courage and determination was an example to all.

"John Roe is a true Red who typified the values and character that we prize and want younger players to aspire to," Mooney said.

"It's typical of Roey that he's putting the team first with this decision. He's always done that in his career and it hasn't always been an easy ride for him. He played through a lot of pain last season rather than let the team down.

"John ranks right up there with the true greats of Queensland Rugby and will always be honoured and remembered for that."