Wallabies players were involved in an ugly push-and-shove with fans as tensions flared after Saturday night's 23-19 defeat by Argentina.
Lukhan Tui appeared to be the target of verbal abuse from one supporter near the tunnel at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast immediately following Australia's shock Rugby Championship loss.
The altercation soon turned physical, with Tui and injured Wallabies centre Samu Kerevi among those drawn into the fray before the crowd member - supposedly a lone menace - was escorted from the scene.
Tui was clearly agitated by something the supporter had said. The lock's stepfather had passed away during the week, the Wallabies wearing black armbands to honour his memory.
A distraught Tui later told teammates he intends to step away from rugby following an the incident, Wallabies coach Michael Cheika revealed.
Cheika claimed the incident was sparked by Tui's sister being pushed by the supporter near the tunnel at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast, immediately following Australia's shock 23-19 loss to Argentina on Saturday night.
Tui addressed the Wallabies playing group after the match and told them he needed to take time away from rugby, Cheika said.