Scotland international retires with immediate effect - Ruck

Scotland international retires with immediate effect

Former Scotland number eight Johnnie Beattie has retired from rugby with immediate effect.

The 38-year-old earned 38 caps for Scotland – 13 more than father John and 90 fewer than footballer sister Jen.

“That inevitable moment in every sportsperson’s career has arrived,” he wrote on Instagram.

“After 16 years of rugby life in Scotland and France, the time is right to retire from playing the sport I love professionally. ‘Le petit mort’ as they say in France.”

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That inevitable moment in every sportsperson’s career has arrived. After sixteen years of rugby life in Scotland and France, the time is right to retire from playing the sport I love professionally. ‘La petite mort’ as they say in France. Rugby introduced me to some of my best mates when I was five years old, as we discovered the sport together. Professional rugby has allowed me to meet and work with some incredible people, from all over the world. The inspirational places, people, experiences, tournaments, supporters, anthems and matches were all a privilege to be part of, and I realise I have been very fortunate to live out my dreams practicing and playing my sport. I look forward to applying cultural lessons learned in leadership, teamwork, respect and enjoyment as I move into new adventures. Thank you to Scottish Rugby, and the Barbarians for fulfilling my wildest childhood fantasies. Moreover to Bayonne, Castres, Montpellier and Glasgow for giving me the chance to wear your colours and represent your beautiful cities. Rhys Parsons and Pete Harmsworth for helping shape the journey. I want to thank everyone who has supported me. From volunteers who ran mini rugby at Glasgow Accies for unruly and overly aggressive five year olds, through to every team mate, management team and supporter that I have crossed paths with. Thank you to my parents for providing me with every opportunity, and taxiing me to every sporting event that Glasgow could offer a youngster. Lastly and most importantly to Jen and our beautiful children. We have shared some magical moments abroad that will last a lifetime. Starting our family in France will forever be my proudest achievement. Thank you for all of your love and support as I pursued my rugby dreams. Johnnie X @scotlandteam @barbarians_fc @avironrugbypro @castresolympique @mhr_officiel @glasgowwarriors @glasgowaccies @esportif @esportif_france

A post shared by Johnnie Beattie (@johnniebeattie) on

“Professional rugby has allowed me to meet and work with some incredible people, from all over the world,” Beattie added.

“The inspirational places, people, experiences, tournaments, supporters, anthems and matches were all a privilege to be part of, and I realise I have been very fortunate to live out my dreams practising and playing my sport.

“I look forward to applying cultural lessons learned in leadership, teamwork, respect and enjoyment as I move into new adventures.”

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