Record-breaking Munster prop to retire

NEWS: Munster stalwart Stephen Archer is to retire at the end of the season.

The 37-year-old tighthead prop is the only Munster player to have made over 300 appearances for the club and also earned two Ireland caps over a long and illustrious career.

Archer’s retirement will bring an end to his 18-year association with the province since the tighthead prop joined the Munster Academy in 2007.

Announcing the news, Archer said: “Growing up, my family were huge Munster supporters and I was lucky enough to be brought to lots of games when I was younger.

“When I made my first Munster appearance in 2009, it was a dream come true. To still be playing 16 years on as Munster’s most-capped player is fairly surreal and something I’m very proud of.

“After winning the first league in 2011, I didn’t think it was going to be 12 years before we won it again in 2023. That made it more special in many ways, winning it in Cape Town after all the near misses.

“Playing for Ireland was a huge honour and something I will always remember as a standout moment in my career.

“In all the Munster dressing rooms I’ve been a part of, there has always been a great bond between the players. I used to enjoy having the craic with the older players when I came in, and now I’m the older player having the craic with the younger fellas. That’s always been the way in Munster.

A Munster legend ❤️

After 18 years & 300+ appearances, Stephen Archer will retire this summer after a record-breaking career.

The one & only member of the #Munster300 Club, what an impact he has made since joining our Academy in 2007.

Full details ⤵️

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#ThanksArchie | #SUAF 🔴

— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) April 30, 2025

“The most enjoyable part has been sitting in the dressing room after a big performance where everyone has given it their all, and you’re all together as a team.

“That team bond is what I will miss most. Saturday is when it counts, but it doesn’t just happen on Saturday – it’s the week’s work and the team bond that you build with everyone rowing in the same direction.

“I’ve shared the dressing room with special team-mates and we’ve had some of the world’s best coaches – I have a lot to thank them for.

“I’d like to thank my parents and siblings for their support and encouragement over the years.

“I’d also like to thank the Munster supporters. I think the majority appreciate my effort and work ethic, and I’m grateful to them for that.

“Most importantly, I’d like to give a massive thanks to my wife Kelly, she has sacrificed a lot to allow me to concentrate on rugby for all these years, and that is something I will always be grateful for.

“It’s been special in the last few years being able to have my kids at games and in the dressing room afterwards. I hope those will be memories of a lifetime for them.

“I’m looking forward to enjoying more time with my family and friends in the summer. I’m excited for what’s ahead, looking for a new career path where I can draw on the experiences and skills that I have gained from professional rugby which will be invaluable to me in the future.

“It’s been amazing so far, and while I’m looking forward to supporting the team in the future, we have a big few weeks ahead.

“Thanks, Archie.”