Heath Shaw sorry for 'retard' sledge

GWS defender Heath Shaw has apologised for his sledge to Swan Tom Papley on Saturday night after calling him a "f---ing retard".

Shaw's sledge was picked up by Fox Footy microphones, who were broadcasting the Sydney derby, and commentator Jason Dunstall immediately apologised for the All-Australian's language.

The Giants defender released a statement on Sunday morning, declaring he has no excuse for the sledge.

"I want to apologise for the insensitive comment I made to Tom Papley during last night's game," he said.

"Yes I am a fiery person who plays with a lot of passion and emotion but that is no excuse for my actions last night.

"I apologise to Tom and anyone else who took offence to my comments, I deeply regret them.

"There is no place for comments of that nature on or off the football ground. It was an offensive remark that I should never have made and for that I apologise."

Shaw sledged Papley after the Sydney small forward put him in a headlock during a scuffle.