IF retiring defender Aaron Hopkins has played his final game for Australia then he will leave the international arena with no regrets.
Hopkins missed the final cut for Beijing earlier this month but joined the Kookaburras in Cairns for the three Test series against Korea with some of the 16-man Olympic squad struggling with minor injuries.
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If any of those niggles turn into something more serious Hopkins might still find himself on a plane to China.
But if they do not, Hopkins thinks now is a good time to end his Kookaburras career.
After producing another full-hearted performance for his country in yesterday's 2-2 draw with Korea, Hopkins said he was at ease about retiring from international hockey.
"Playing for Australia has been a huge honour but I'm happy with the decision," the 28-year-old from Perth said. "I'm excited about where I'm going with my family and the time we have ahead.
"I'm very proud of my career. I've had some fantastic times.
"We've had a lot of success - Commonwealth Games gold, two World Cup silvers - I've been fortunate to be involved with a very good bunch of blokes."
While part of him no doubt pines to go to Beijing, Hopkins is confident the Kookaburras can win back-to-back gold following their triumph in Athens.
"I think their chances are fantastic," he said.
"The guys are starting to hit their straps, their knowledge of their games is very good and they know what to do to make it happen.
"They've got that youth and experience - it's a cliche - but it's a great balance."
