Danny Cipriani, the former England fly-half, has officially announced his retirement from professional rugby, describing the decision as both "sobering but also freeing."
The 36-year-old, who has been in a semi-retired state since 2022, expressed that while he had initially left the possibility open in his mind, a moment of realisation outside a Costa prompted him to send a message to his agent affirming that he does not wish to return to the field.
Having earned 16 caps for England and played for esteemed clubs like Wasps, Melbourne Rebels, Sale Sharks, Gloucester, and Bath, Cipriani concluded his professional career after departing from Bath at the conclusion of the 2022 season.
He wrote: "Thank you to all the coaches I've had, taken lots away from each one of you," he added. "All the staff at every club who are always the greatest mix of personalities, thank you for often being the heartbeat of the club.
"To the supporters who turned up and wore their heart on their sleeves, thank you for showing love throughout my career, special memories from all the fans of each team I played at.
"To all my team-mates I played with, man I loved it, I know sometimes I could be relentless, we did have some fun out there though.
"Learnt so much throughout my career and when I reflect, I'm grateful for every moment. Anyway, from a semi-retired now officially retired ex-rugby player. I couldn't be more excited for right now, and what's in store in the future."
Despite the retirement from the professional scene, Cipriani has hinted at continuing to play rugby for enjoyment.
In a surprising turn of events, he recently participated in a touch rugby session in East London, highlighting his ongoing passion for the sport in a more recreational capacity.
The official account wrote: "Glad to have played with a legend @dannycipriani87 Thanks to the brother for coming through and just having fun with the team. Mad respect."
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
Robshaw, born June 4, 1986, is an English rugby union player recognized for his tenacity and leadership as a flanker. Former captain of the England national team, Robshaw's dedication and work ethic have made him a stalwart in the sport. His notable career includes successful stints with Harlequins in the Premiership.
Owens said: Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."
#4. Jean de Villiers (South Africa)
de Villiers, born February 24, 1981, is a former South African rugby union player renowned for his versatility and leadership on the field.
A skilled centre, he captained the Springboks and represented them in three Rugby World Cups. De Villiers' commitment and prowess made him a respected figure in international rugby.
Owens said: "He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me."
#3. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
McCaw, born December 31, 1980, is a legendary New Zealand rugby union player celebrated for his unmatched leadership and exceptional skills as an openside flanker. The most capped All Blacks captain, McCaw led the team to consecutive Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as an icon in rugby history.
Owens said: "He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players.
"Maybe he will be at the top for many people.
"New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost."
#2. Paul O'Connell & Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: "I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper.
"O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell.
I found them excellent to deal with."
#1. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Dusautoir, born November 18, 1981, is a retired French rugby union player renowned for his exceptional skills as a flanker and captain. A stalwart of French rugby, he led the national team to the 2011 Rugby World Cup final. Dusautoir's resilience and leadership left an indelible mark on the sport.
Owens said: "My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was. He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well."
QUIZ: Name Every Head Coach to Win the Men’s Guinness Six Nations (2000 – 2023)
The brains behind the Six Nations masterplans, these head coaches have all won 'Rugby's Greatest Championship', since the modernised competition began back in 2000. Throughout the history of the competition, there have been only five head coaches to win the competition on more than one occasion.
However, Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is looking to become the sixth, as he orchestrates the men from the Emerald Isle into defending their Six Nations Grand Slam. In total, the Six Nations has been won by 13 different head coaches, and we challenge you to name them all in the next six minutes!
Your time starts... now! Good luck!
