Warren Gatland and Wales snubbed Louis Rees-Zammit, not even acknowledging the winger as they announced their squad for the 2024 Six Nations.
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The now former Gloucester winger wasn’t even mentioned in the squad release before it was confirmed he has quit rugby with immediate effect to join the NFL international player pathway (IPP).
The 22-year-old, who has been capped by Wales 32 times, described the decision as “painstaking”.
He is aiming to earn a spot on an American football team for 2024.
“I am extremely excited to take up a once in a lifetime opportunity to pursue a new challenge,” Rees-Zammit said.
Rees-Zammit said the move did not necessarily mean he was retiring from rugby.
“Rather at this age and stage of my life I am excited to explore a unique challenge that has the potential to diversify my skillset,” he said.
Speaking on the shock move, Gatland revealed he had only just found out himself less than an hour before the squad annoucnwement.
“I learned it about an hour ago. Spoke to Louis about half an hour ago. It’s a little bit of a shock. Gloucester had contacted about 12. Things have happened pretty quickly. Louis said he had an approach on Sunday.
“It’s something he’s always dreamed of. The paperwork has been agreed and signed and Gloucester have agreed to release him. He rang me to give me that information, thank me for his time at the World Cup. He’s 22, he’s always dreamed of playing in the NFL. He feels if he doesn’t take that opportunity now, it might not come up. I wished him all the best. I asked him what are his next steps if it doesn’t work out, he said he’d come back.
“There’s never a dull moment in Welsh rugby. Gloucester are in exactly the same boat as us. It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster in the last couple of hours. From my point of view, I want to wish Louis all the best. I honestly hope it all works out for him.”
Louis Rees-Zammit posts incredible 100m time in bid to be fastest rugby player
In the world of rugby, speed is like a bolt of lightning, and Wales’ now former sensation Louis Rees-Zammit recently set tongues wagging with his 100m sprint time.
The Rugby World Cup has always been a grand stage for showcasing extraordinary talents, where players combine skill and athleticism to create magic on the field.
As we dive into the realm of rapid rugby, we shine a spotlight on the five swiftest players to ever grace the Rugby World Cup stage.
These speed demons bring their unique style and flair to captivate fans around the globe.”
- Henry Arundell (England):
Kicking off our list at number five is the English speedster, Henry Arundell. Known for his blistering pace on the wing, Arundell has the ability to leave defenders in the dust. His acceleration off the mark is nothing short of remarkable, and he possesses a keen rugby IQ that allows him to exploit gaps in the opposition’s defense. England fans can always count on Arundell to be a genuine threat on the outside.