Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
England’s most capped male rugby player, Ben Youngs, has confirmed his decision to conclude his professional career at the culmination of the existing season. The seasoned 35-year-old scrum-half for Leicester Tigers, who lately registered his 332nd outing for the club, conveyed his complex sentiments regarding the approaching transition.
Ben Youngs Announces Retirement from Club Rugby
“It’s a feeling of both sadness and anticipation, truly,” stated Youngs. “Naturally, I’m saddened by the notion that it is drawing to a close, yet I am equally enthusiastic about the remainder of this season and optimistic about what this current squad can achieve.”
He continued, “That is the less straightforward aspect; I am mentioning the term ‘retirement’, but it does not signify an immediate halt. There remains a substantial amount of rugby to be played this season, and that is my primary focus right now. My involvement is not finished; let’s not draft the final summary just yet.”
A Career Defined by Leicester Tigers
“I have committed two decades of my life to this club,” Youngs remarked. “During this tenure, I have been granted the privilege of participating in numerous memorable moments, experienced considerable success, and forged lasting memories.”
Reflecting on his affiliation with the specific colours of the club, Youngs affirmed, “The green, red, and white are all I have ever known within the sphere of club rugby, and indeed, all I ever wished to be acquainted with.”
“Competing against this particular club was consistently not something I would consider,” he added. “Therefore, to have the opportunity to conclude my journey as a player who represented only one club throughout his career will be regarded as one of my most significant accomplishments.”
Concluding Chapter and Future Goals
Having held the record for the highest number of test appearances for England and participated in four Rugby World Cups before ending his international tenure two years ago following a bronze medal finish in France, Youngs is now concentrated on pursuing his sixth Premiership championship with Leicester.
“The appropriate moment will arrive to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who has contributed to my achievements,” Youngs explained, “but that is a matter for when this chapter officially closes.”
“For the present, the objective is to conclude this significant period of my life by attaining further triumphs. I am not done just yet,” he emphasised, highlighting his dedication to the ongoing campaign.