- The famous international star has been forced to retire due to serious injuries.
- Repetitive physical problems have plagued the star over the past two years.
- England manager Steve Borthwick congratulated the winger on his retirement.
Anthony Watson has announced his retirement from rugby for medical reasons after an impressive career with England and the British & Irish Lions, as well as Leicester and Bath.
Watson, 30, made his final appearance for the Tigers this season but has battled injuries over the past two years.
The flying wing, who began his career with London Irish, earned 56 caps for his country and won three Six Nations titles.
He toured twice with the Lions in 2017 and 2021 and played in two World Cups in 2015 and 2019.
Watson said: 'My overall feeling is one of pride.
“I am proud and blessed to have done what I did throughout my career: to have represented my family, my country and two of the most important clubs in the country.
Anthony Watson has announced his retirement from rugby for medical reasons after an impressive career with England and the British & Irish Lions.
Unfortunately, the 30-year-old has battled injuries for the past two years.
The flying wing, who began his career with London Irish, earned 56 caps for his country and won three Six Nations titles.
'When I started, I wanted to make my father proud more than anyone.
'I wanted to play for England and the Lions with my parents in the crowd and, finally, I wanted to share a moment with my children on the field. I can say I've done all those things.'
He had previously described his recovery from back surgery as “horrendous” during an interview with the BBC in October, where he stated: “It was a horrendous journey, six or seven months, to be honest.” “It was frustrating and it was bigger than just a muscle injury or a tendon strain – it was more serious.”
Watson's remarkable pace and eye for the try line quickly made him an international regular after his debut in 2014. His time in the game has been cruelly cut short.
England manager Steve Borthwick said: “Anthony is to be congratulated on a fantastically successful career.” I was lucky to have coached Anthony at both Leicester and England.
“He is a humble and hard-working professional man who is universally loved and admired in the game. Anthony not only brought his incredible talent to the England shirt every time he played, but was also an immensely proud player to represent his country.
“We all wish him the best in his next chapter and thank him for everything he did for the England team.”
Leicester CEO Richard Wilks added: “On behalf of the club, I would like to thank Anthony for his contribution to Leicester. While his time at the club has not gone exactly as he or the club would have liked, his presence and experience They have been of great value.
Watson played 122 games for Bath before finally deciding to leave the club in 2022.
Watson's remarkable pace and eye for the try line quickly made him an international regular for England and the Lions.
England manager Steve Borthwick praised Watson after his retirement was confirmed.
'His dedication in returning to the field this year was truly special and a great testament to him as an athlete, professional and person.
“Anthony is one of the most talented players this country has produced and we are proud that he has represented Leicester during his decorated career.
“We are excited to see him continue to make an impact beyond his playing career.
“He will always be welcome at Leicester and we wish him and his family the best in their next chapter.”