Scotland great Stuart Hogg announces he will quit rugby after World Cup

27 March 2023 , 16:03

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Stuart Hogg has announced he will quit rugby after the World Cup (Image: Getty Images)

Scotland full-back Stuart Hogg has made the shock announcement that he will retire from rugby after this year's World Cup.

Hogg, 30, won his 100th cap during the Six Nations and now wants to "finish at the top of the game" at this autumn's showpiece in France.

The Exeter Chiefs star confirmed his decision to step away from both the domestic and international game in a social media post on Monday titled "The Final Chapter".

And Hogg - Scotland's leading try scorer with 27 - revealed that a "new career beckons" as he explained that his body simply does not have much more to give.

Hogg is currently sidelined with an ankle injury that ruled him out of Scotland's final Six Nations match against Italy.

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But he is now dreaming of ending his glittering career on a high at his third World Cup having proved an integral member of his national squad for over a decade.

He made his Scotland debut in 2012, captaining the side from 2020-2022, and has been selected for the past three British and Irish Lions tours.

Hogg is determined to go out on a high at the World Cup (SNS Group)

Hogg's surprise statement read: “After RWC 2023, my professional rugby journey will end and I will be retiring from the game. As a young kid growing up in the Borders, all I wanted to do was to play rugby for Scotland.

"I feel privileged to have represented my country on 100 occasions, play on three British & Irish Lions tours and represent some amazing clubs. I couldn’t have asked for any more.

“I’ve so many people to thank and I will get round to you all. First and foremost is my wife Gill, my parents, my brother and my kids. I’m so lucky and proud to have such a loving family that have supported me every step of the way.

"Rugby has allowed me to meet some incredible characters, make lifelong friends, travel the world and be part of some unbelievable experiences that I will cherish forever.

“Knowing what lies ahead, I have a real hunger to play the best, most enjoyable rugby of my career, finishing the season strongly with Exeter Chiefs before attacking the opportunity we, as a nation, have in France.

"I don’t feel my body can achieve the standards that I set myself for much longer and I’ve always wanted to finish at the top end of the game. After the tournament, a new career beckons and I will attack it in the same manner as I play the game. I hope I have done you proud. 100 not out (just yet).”

Ben Parsons