Wales and Cardiff back row Josh Navidi has announced his retirement from rugby due to a “serious neck injury”. The 33-cap Wales international was an uncapped tourist for the British and Irish Lions on their tour of South Africa in 2021.
Navidi, who made his debut for Cardiff in 2009, was a popular player among fans. He expressed his sadness at leaving the sport but also his pride in his career.
"It is with great sadness but also an immense amount of pride that I am announcing my retirement from rugby," Navidi said.
"Although I knew this day would come eventually, I don't think I was ever really able to prepare myself for how difficult it would be to put into words just how much of an impact the game has had on my life."
Navidi went on to express his gratitude towards Cardiff Rugby, where he began his career. He reminisced about the many memories he had created during his 14-year tenure with the club.
"I am enormously grateful to everyone at Cardiff Rugby. I started my career with the club in 2009, and over those 14 years, there have been so many memories made that will stay with me for the rest of my life."
FIVE RUGBY PLAYERS WHO MADE BOLD CAREER CHANGES:
Here’s some of the most prominent rugby players to have made waves in business.
#1. Stuart Hogg - Everything
After confirming his retirement, Hogg said in a statement: "A new career beckons and I will attack in the same manner as I play the game."
The Scotland legend has revealed he isn't too keen on coaching, but will remain in the game as a pundit after making his debut on BBC during the 2023 Six Nations.
PUNDITRY:
Sources tell RUCK that BT Sport (soon to be TNT Sports) are keen. to recruit the fullback as a key part of their 2023/24 Premiership coverage.
RESTAURANT OWNER:
He is the co-owner of steak house Finsbay Flatiron in Glasgow.
The focus for Finsbay Flatiron is steak, specialising in 8oz flat irons (as the name suggests) and steaks from £8 on weekdays and £10 on weekends, as well as sides like mac and cheese and triple cooked chips.
DISTILLERY:
He's a director of a distillery named Maiden Batch.
Caulker's is a collaborative effort between five Glasgow men, two of whom happen to be British Lions and Scotland rugby internationals, Hogg and Alastair Kellock. The bottle is signed by all five.
