The journey is over.
Jamie Heaslip – one of the most decorated players in Irish rugby history – has retired from the game.
The Leinster, Ireland and Lions star has not played since injuring his back in the warm-up of Ireland’s Six Nations clash with England in March 2017.
It was hoped he would return to play but, on Monday morning, he called time on a hugely successful career.
In a post of pure class, he wrote:
‘Time will get us all, but it’s cornered me earlier than I hoped.
‘Every professional sportsperson always hopes to be able leave their chosen sport on their terms but too often that’s not the case.
‘I have had to take on board the medical advice that I have been given and after talking to Sheena and my family I have taken the difficult decision to retire with immediate effect from playing rugby in order to ensure my future well being.
‘I’m very proud to finish my career as a one club man having played amongst some of the best in the game, who are all like a family of brothers to me.
‘My goal when I started my professional career 14 years ago was to leave the the jerseys that I wore in a better place and I hope I have done that.
‘Thank you to the IRFU, Leinster Rugby, all the coaches, medical staff,back room staff, sponsors, media, supporters and most importantly my wife, family , friends and fellow players for helping me to make my dreams come true.
‘I’ve had the time of my life on and off the rugby pitch but now its time for the next chapter.’
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfp8xQEh8eX/?hl=en&taken-by=jamieheaslip
He was one of the greats of his generation.
More to follow…
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