West Coast premiership midfielder Michael Braun has announced his retirement from the AFL.

The 30-year-old wants to play out the season but is unsure whether his knee will hold up to the rigours, meaning Sunday's clash against Richmond could be his last.

Braun, who has played 222 games for the Eagles, has struggled to hit top form this year following a cleanout of his knee over summer.

He described the decision to retire as the toughest of his life, choking back tears as he revealed his mind was still willing but his body wasn't.

The veteran has averaged just under 19 disposals per game in 2008 and has battled to make an impact in a midfield missing Chris Judd and Ben Cousins.

Braun was a diamond in the rough when drafted by West Coast with pick No. 53 in the 1996 national draft.

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