Peterson represented the USA across 51 international caps and two Rugby World Cup.
Peterson said "It was an incredibly hard decision to make, to step away from the game I've known and loved for 28 years of my life, 15 years as a career and 10 years with the USA Eagles, I believe it is the right time. I've had plenty of highs and lows with the Eagles, all of them have been critical to my success as a player and a person. I want to thank all the coaches, medical staff, administrative staff and teammates for your support, guidance and help throughout my playing career. I want to thank my parents, Carl and Diane, for giving me the drive, support and encouragement and most importantly wife Tess, without her, all that I achieved wouldn't have been possible."
Peterson has played rugby since he was 5 years old, raised in Sydney and playing high school rugby at The Scots College.
Peterson joined New South Wales Waratahs of Super Rugby and played for Australia U20s during the 2010 & 2011 Junior World Championship.
He moved to Leicester Tigers in England before joining Glasgow for the first of two spells at the club.
Peterson also played pro rugby with Bordeaux Begles and Newcastle Falcons and closed out his club career with the San Diego Legion of Major League Rugby in 2024.