- Scotland’s record try scorer Stuart Hogg announces retirement
- Retirement due to body’s inability to withstand strain
- Hogg’s illustrious career filled with accomplishments and highlights
Scotland’s record try scorer Stuart Hogg retired from rugby union Sunday, citing his body’s inability to handle the load.
In March, Hogg announced his retirement after this year’s World Cup, which runs from 8 September to 28 October. Hogg has scored 27 tries for Scotland.
The 31-year-old captain led Scotland to two Calcutta Cup victories over England while competing in two World Cups. Hogg’s club, Exeter Chiefs, also won the European Champions Cup and the Premiership in 2020.
“It is difficult to know where to begin, but I am announcing my immediate retirement from playing rugby with great sadness and tremendous pride,” Hogg said in a statement. “I fought with everything I had to qualify for the Rugby World Cup, but this time my body was unable to do what I desired and needed. This day was inevitable, but I never imagined it would arrive so quickly.
“It is difficult to express the profound impact the game has had on my life. I will retire knowing that I have given rugby my body and soul.”
Hogg made his début for Scotland in February 2012 and played his 100th international match in this year’s Six Nations against Ireland, signing off with the phrase “100 and out” Additionally, he was selected for three British & Irish Lions missions in 2013, 2017, and 2021.
“He has been an outstanding performer for Scotland,” said Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend. “His career has been filled with so many accomplishments, highlights, and memorable moments.
This year’s achievement of 100 caps was a fitting and just reward for a career that has seen him represent the British and Irish Lions and earn domestic and European trophies. We respect his decision to retire at this time and are aware of the challenges his body has faced in recent seasons.”
