The Rugby World Pays Tribute To Jamie Heaslip Following Retirement Announcement

Mr. Reliable.

Jamie Heaslip surprised everybody this morning with a sudden retirement announcement with immediate effect.

The Ireland and Leinster number eight has been battling a back injury for almost a year. But the latest rumblings suggested he was on course for a return in the next couple of months.

But for a man that has achieved almost everything there is to achieve in rugby, it just simply wasn’t worth a risk. There’s more to life than rugby, and his health and well-being always had to come first.

The reaction to his retirement has been quite fitting. A number of his former teammates have waxed lyrical, not only based on the kind of player he was, but also the man and friend he was.

All the best Jamie. It’s been a hell of a ride.

Time will get us all, but it's cornered me earlier than I hoped. Every professional sportsperson always hopes to be able leave their chosen sport on their terms but too often that’s not the case. I have had to take on board the medical advice that I have been given and after talking to Sheena and my family, I have taken the difficult decision to retire with immediate effect from playing rugby in order to ensure my future well being. I’m very proud to finish my career as a one club man having played amongst some of the best in the game, who are all like a family of brothers to me. My goal when I started my professional career 14 years ago was to leave the jerseys that I wore in a better place and I hope I have done that. Thank you to the IRFU, Leinster Rugby, all the coaches, medical staff,back room staff, sponsors, media, supporters and most importantly my wife, family , friends and fellow players for helping me to make my dreams come true. I’ve had the time of my life on and off the rugby pitch but now its time for the next chapter. Jamie

A post shared by Jamie Heaslip (@jamieheaslip) on

Top Bloke. Paying tribute to @jamieheaslip #thanksjamie

A post shared by Irish Rugby (@irishrugby) on

Facebook
Twitter
Follow Me
Instagram