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Scottish rugby legend Stuart Hogg has announced that he will retire from international rugby after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
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The 30-year-old full-back, who has won 100 caps for Scotland, made the announcement on social media this lunchtime.
Hogg, who currently plays for Exeter Chiefs, said that it was a tough decision to make, but implied he wants to spend more time with his family and focus on his business interests after he hangs up his boots.
He added that he is fully committed to the Scottish national team and will give his all to help them achieve success at the World Cup.
The Final Chapter… pic.twitter.com/gUhq7jkVrv
— Stuart W Hogg (@StuartWHOGG_) March 27, 2023
“After RWC 2023, my professional rugby journey will end and I will be retiring from the game.
“As a young kid growing up in the The Borders, all I wanted to do was play rugby for Scotland. I feel privileged to have represented my country on 100 occasions, play on three British and Irish Lions tours and represent some amazing clubs. I couldn’t have asked for any more.
“I’ve so many people to thank and I will get round to you all. First and foremost is my wife Gill, my parents, my brother and my kids. I’m so lucky and proud to have such a loving family that have supported me every step of the way.
“Rugby has allowed me to meet some incredible characters, make lifelong friends, travel the world and be part of some unbelievable experiences that I will cherish forever.
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“Knowing what lies ahead, I have a real hunger to play the best, most enjoyable rugby of my career, finishing the season strongly with Exeter Chiefs before attacking the opportunity we, as a nation, have in France.
“I don’t feel my body can achieve the standards that I set myself for much longer and I’ve always wanted to finish at the top end of the game. After the tournament, a new career beckons and I will attack it in the same manner as I play the game. I hope I have done you proud.
“100 not out (just yet).”
Rugby commentator and RugbyPass writer Jamie Lyall wrote: “Stuart Hogg has defined an entire era of Scottish rugby. A time when Glasgow grew into a force, & Scotland became a serious operator again. The game takes a heavy toll on body & mind, even for the greats. Hogg has said as much. He retires young, but as a giant of Scottish sport.”
Stuart Hogg has defined an entire era of Scottish rugby. A time when Glasgow grew into a force, & Scotland became a serious operator again.
The game takes a heavy toll on body & mind, even for the greats. Hogg has said as much
He retires young, but as a giant of Scottish sport pic.twitter.com/3J23yozFA6
— Jamie Lyall (@JLyall93) March 27, 2023
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Having burst onto the scene with a spectacular try for Scotland A against England Saxons, Stuart Hogg made his debut for the national team in February 2012 against Wales. He marked the occasion with an impressive display, and in his first start at BT Murrayfield, he scored a try against France.
Hogg has since become a key figure for Scotland, representing his country at two World Cups and captaining the side in consecutive victories over England in 2021 and 2022. In his club career, he has enjoyed great success, winning the PRO12 with Glasgow Warriors in 2015, as well as the European Champions Cup and Gallagher Premiership with Exeter Chiefs in 2020.
His outstanding form has earned him three British & Irish Lions call-ups, including two Test starts on the most recent tour to South Africa in 2021.
Pity he's retiring only aged 30, but it'll give another South African a chance to play for Scotland.