Jonathan Davies Retires from Professional Rugby After 18 Years of Excellence
\Jonathan Davies, a former Wales and British & Irish Lions centre, has officially announced his retirement from professional rugby. The 36-year-old, who made a remarkable impact on Welsh rugby, accumulated an impressive 96 caps for Wales and scored 55 tries in 209 appearances for the Scarlets over two separate spells. This decision follows a recent break from the game, allowing Davies to reflect on his career and enjoy family time.
After leaving the Scarlets at the end of the 2023-24 season, Davies took to Instagram to share his retirement announcement, stating, ‘After taking time away from the game following the end of my last season with the Scarlets, I have come to the decision to call time on my professional rugby career.’ His time away from the field provided him with an opportunity to enjoy summer with his family, particularly his newborn son. ‘I have enjoyed a break and a summer at home with my family, and been lucky enough to spend quality time with my newborn son, alongside my wife, as we embark on this new chapter together as parents,’ he shared.
Reflecting on his career, Davies expressed gratitude for the camaraderie of the sport and the many milestones he reached with Wales and the Scarlets. His dedication to rugby earned him significant achievements, including two Grand Slams with Wales and the title of player of the series during the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand. ‘I will inevitably miss the camaraderie of training and playing competitively alongside my team-mates, but over these past few months I have been able to assess all of my options and reflect on a career of which I am incredibly proud,’ Davies reflected.
Davies’ journey in professional rugby has been remarkable, highlighted by his contributions to Wales and his unforgettable performances with the Lions. On his retirement, he said, ‘It’s been an incredible ride, with two Lions tours, two Grand Slams, and the Pro 12 title to name a few. I have been lucky enough to play the game professionally for 18 years, dedicating everything I have to being the best rugby player I could be. I now look forward to what the next 18 will bring, as a father, a husband, and in my next professional chapter.’
Davies’ retirement marks the end of an era for Welsh rugby. His legacy will undoubtedly be remembered, and fans can only hope his next chapter will be as fulfilling as his rugby career.
