Stuart Hogg has announced that he will retire from professional rugby following the 2023 World Cup; the three-time British and Irish Lion recently reached 100 caps for Scotland after making his debut in 2012
Monday 27 March 2023 18:33, UK
Stuart Hogg has announced that he will retire from professional rugby after this year's World Cup in France.
In a statement on social media, the Scotland full-back announced that the tournament in September will be his last.
He said: "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."
Hogg, who turns 31 in June, will play out the rest of the season with his club side, Exeter Chiefs, before hanging up his boots after the World Cup in France, which gets under way on September 8.
Hogg added: "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)."
Hogg made his 100 international appearance against Ireland in the recent Six Nations, but missed the final game of the tournament with an ankle injury.
He made his debut for Scotland back in 2012 against Wales and has since represented them at two World Cups, while he also captained the side in 2021 and 2022.
