Sevens Superstar calls time on his career
NEWS: USA sevens legend and former American football player, Perry Baker has called it a day on his rugby career.
The star announced today that after 10 years at the top of the sport, breaking multiple individual records along the way, he will be stepping away from playing.
In a statement shared on his Instagram, the 38-year-old said: โAfter an incredible 10 years representing the USA Menโs sevens program, the time has come for me to step away from the game that has shaped so much of my life.
“Itโs been an honor and a privilege to wear the jersey and represent my country on the world stage. From the moment I joined the team, I could never have imagined the experiences, the highs and lows, and the lifelong friendships rugby would give me.
๐๐ ๐ฎ๐ค๐ช ๐๐๐ก๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฉ, ๐ฎ๐ค๐ช ๐๐๐ฃ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฉ 🫶
Leaving a legacy for those who come next. pic.twitter.com/iUpgadWSZy
โ USA Rugby (@USARugby) October 14, 2024
โYear one of my journey was especially life-changing as I met my amazing wife, and together we built our family. To my wife and family, I couldnโt have done this without your endless support and love. Youโve been my anchor, and Iโm grateful for the sacrifices you made so I could pursue my dream.
โTo my teammates, coaches, staff, and everyone in USA Rugby, thank you for believing in me, pushing me, and making every moment memorable. To the fans, rugby isnโt just a sport, itโs a family and you guys made me feel that everywhere I went. And to rugby itself, thank you for teaching me resilience, teamwork, and leadership that will live with me forever.
โAs I step into the next chapter, I carry with me all the lessons, memories, and connections this game has given me. Iโm excited for whatโs to come and how I can continue giving back to this amazing sport.
โThank you for being part of my journey.โ
Able to run 100 metres in 10.58 seconds in his prime, Baker has been utterly devastating for USA Rugby over the years.
Most recently he competed at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games where the 38-year-old and his teammates reached the quarterfinals, and Baker finished joint top try scorer in the competition.
Throughout his long-distinguished career, Baker has achieved multiple accolades, including becoming the second highest-scoring SVNS circuit scorer of all time and being named the World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year in two consecutive years.
Source: Rugbydump
