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BREAKING: England star forced to retire at 30

By @rugby365com
Friday 17 Jan 2025

NEWS: Leicester Tigers and England international Anthony Watson has been forced to retire from professional rugby on medical grounds.

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The 30-year-old made the last of his 23 Leicester Tigers appearances in Round 7 of the 24/25 Gallagher Premiership season, having shown immense resilience and passion for the game to make a return to rugby this season.

One of the most electrifying rugby talents of his generation, Watson enjoyed an illustrious career representing both club and country with distinction.

He made 22 appearances for London Irish before joining Bath in 2013 where he established a reputation as a force in the domestic game and went on to be rewarded with his first senior England Test cap in 2014.

Across his career, Watson earned 56 caps for England, featuring prominently in three Six Nations Championship-winning squads and the 2019 World Cup campaign which included reaching the tournament Final.

Additionally, he represented the British & Irish Lions on two tours, solidifying his place as one of English rugby’s modern greats.

In 2022, after making 126 appearances for Bath, Watson joined Leicester Tigers.

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Watson, #2394, said: “My overarching feeling is of pride. I’m proud and blessed to have done what I did through my career; to have represented my family, my country and two of the biggest clubs in the country.

“When I started out, I wanted to make my dad more than anyone proud, I wanted to play for England and the Lions with my parents in the crowd and, eventually, wanted to share a moment with my children on the field.

“I can say I’ve done all those things.”

Leicester Tigers General Manager Richard Wilks added: “On behalf of the club, I want to thank Anthony for his contribution to Leicester Tigers. While his time at the club hasn’t gone exactly how he or the club would have wanted, his presence and experience has been of great value to the club.”

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“His dedication to getting back out on the field this year was truly special and a great testament to him as an athlete, professional and person.

“Anthony is one of the most talented players this country has produced and we are proud that he represented Leicester Tigers during his decorated career.

“We are excited to see him continue to make an impact beyond his playing career. He will always be welcome at Leicester Tigers and we wish him and his family the very best in their next chapter.”

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