Thompson has been with the Cowboys since 2009, making his NRL debut for the North Queensland outfit. 

He has since gone on to make 111 appearances for the club across nine seasons. 

However, persistent knee injuries have forced the 27-year-old Papua New Guinea international into retirement. 

“This club has been everything to me for nearly a decade, it’s given me plenty and I’d like to think I’ve given back to it as well,” Thompson said. 

“I’ve got nothing but great memories of my time playing here and to take the field with these blokes has been a true privilege. 

"I've battled through some injuries throughout my career, so now was the right time to call curtains, but rest assured I’ll be giving it my all for the rest of the season.” 

Cowboys General Manager of Football Peter Parr added: “Earlier in the year, Paul Green said Ray was ‘as tough as a two-dollar steak’ after he played against the Knights.

“That’s been the story of his entire career, and while he’s had his challenges on the injury front, he’s never blinked at getting back on to the field. 

“This club is a better place for Ray’s time here.” ​