"Right time" - Ex-England winger Marland Yarde releases emotional statement
Rugby NewsThursday, 15 May 2025 at 13:23
Former England winger Marland Yarde has officially retired from professional rugby, bringing the curtain down on a once-glittering career overshadowed by scandal, trauma, and ultimately, resilience.
The 32-year-old hasn’t featured on a rugby field since May 2023 — and now, after two years without a club, he’s chosen to speak out for the first time about the off-field ordeal that derailed his career.
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Falsely accused, career destroyed
Yarde’s life was turned upside down after being falsely accused of sexual assault by sex worker Sandra Ntonya, 44, from Manchester. Dubbed ‘The Justified Hooker’, she stalked the former England star for over a year, hounding him with vile slurs and social media attacks — repeatedly referring to him as a “rapist” in public posts.
The situation escalated when she called the police and falsely claimed Yarde had assaulted a teenage girl.
He was arrested. Sale Sharks cut ties. His name was dragged through the mud.
But the truth came out. Yarde was fully cleared and never charged with any offence.
“The most challenging period of my life”
Now, with the nightmare behind him, Yarde has chosen to step away from the game — but not in silence.
“Now feels like the right time to speak,” Yarde wrote in a heartfelt statement posted on social media. “The past events have undoubtedly been the most challenging period of my life. I’ve faced moments I never imagined.”
Despite the trauma, Yarde says he emerges from the storm “stronger, clearer, and surrounded by love.”
A career that inspired
Yarde scored 8 tries in 13 Tests for England, with unforgettable moments at Twickenham and beyond. His explosive pace and fearless finishing made him one of the brightest wings in English rugby — lighting up the Premiership with London Irish, Harlequins and Sale Sharks, and even making a brief return to the sport with Bayonne and the Barbarians.
But behind the tries and tackles, there’s a player full of gratitude.
“Rugby has given me everything – purpose, lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories,” he said. “To the clubs that shaped me – thank you. Each jersey carried its own legacy.”
He also reserved special thanks for John Flynn, Neal Hatley, and physio Nav Sandeep, who supported him through the darkest times.
“England was the pinnacle”
For Yarde, nothing beat the honour of wearing the Red Rose.
“Representing England was the pinnacle of my career and a childhood dream! Running out at Twickenham in front of 80,000 people – that feeling is indescribable.”
Family first, always
Yarde’s final words were dedicated to those who never left his side.
“To my Mum – you are my rock. Your love and sacrifices built the path I’ve walked. I love you deeply. I am excited for life and what the future holds.”
What’s next for Marland Yarde?
Yarde hasn’t closed the door on rugby entirely — hinting he’ll stay involved in the sport “in a wide capacity.” But for now, he’s finally stepping away from the pitch with his head held high.
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