Hogg recognized as one of Scottish rugby’s finest by Townsend
Ex-Scotland captain Stuart Hogg, at 31, is hanging up his boots and exiting the rugby world “filled with deep sorrow”.
Hogg had planned to conclude his career following the World Cup this year.
After switching from Glasgow Warriors to Exeter Chiefs in 2019, Hogg collected 100 caps for Scotland and took part in three tours with the British and Irish Lions.
Struggling to make it to the Rugby World Cup, Hogg stated, “I endeavored with all my might, but my body hasn’t been able to perform the tasks I wished and required of it this time.”
He added, “It’s tough to know where to begin, but I am declaring my immediate retirement from rugby with heavy heart and immense pride. We knew this day would eventually come – I just never anticipated it would arrive this soon.
Expressing the profound impact of the game on his life, Hogg said, “It’s challenging to articulate the profound impact rugby has had on my life. I retire knowing I’ve dedicated my heart and body to the sport. I am eternally indebted to this wonderful community and look forward to starting my journey as a fervent supporter of the team.”
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Hogg’s victories include the 2015 Pro12 with the Warriors and the 2020 Premiership and European Champions Cup double with the Chiefs.
Having participated in the last two World Cups and the Lions’ tours to Australia 2013, New Zealand 2017, and South Africa 2021, Hogg earned all his 171 Test points donning a Scotland jersey.
Scotland’s head coach Gregor Townsend praised Hogg, saying, “He has been a phenomenal player for Scotland, and his career sparkled with a myriad of achievements, highlights, and unforgettable moments.”
“I had the privilege of coaching Stuart for most of his career, and it was a delight to work with him and watch him on the training field and during games. His basic skills and speed distinguished him from other players, and it’s been a remarkable effort to play Test rugby for the past 11 years.”
“We respect his decision to withdraw at this point and understand the physical toll and challenges he has experienced in recent seasons,” added Townsend.
BBC Scotland’s Tom English referred to Hogg as ‘one of Scotland’s greatest ever players’. He went on to say, “This isn’t a massive shock. His March announcement of intending to retire post-World Cup was a real shocker – no one saw that coming. But in recent weeks, there’s been some buzz. Scotland had a World Cup warm-up camp in France, and Hogg was absent.”
English concluded, “He clearly understands that his time is up, that his body can’t take it anymore. It’s an immensely tough decision for him, but he’s making the right call for himself and the team. The way he played rugby, it was demanding. Stuart Hogg, if he felt fit enough for the World Cup, he would’ve gone. It meant the world to him to represent and captain his country. He captained with honor. He had unforgettable moments in that jersey. Undeniably one of Scotland’s all-time greats. Certainly Scotland’s first professional era superstar. The responsibility was his, and he bore it lightly. His speed, the excitement he brought when he got the ball, and the respect from opponents – Hogg gave them a lot to think about.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Stuart Hogg retirement
When did Stuart Hogg announce his retirement from rugby?
Stuart Hogg announced his retirement from rugby in July 2023.
Why did Stuart Hogg decide to retire?
Stuart Hogg decided to retire due to physical strains, as his body was not able to keep up with the demands of the sport.
How old is Stuart Hogg at the time of his retirement?
Stuart Hogg is 31 years old at the time of his retirement.
How many caps did Stuart Hogg win for Scotland?
Stuart Hogg won 100 caps for Scotland during his rugby career.
Which teams did Stuart Hogg play for during his career?
Stuart Hogg played for the Glasgow Warriors and the Exeter Chiefs during his career.
How many tours did Stuart Hogg do with the British and Irish Lions?
Stuart Hogg toured three times with the British and Irish Lions.
What were some of Hogg’s major accomplishments?
Some of Hogg’s major accomplishments include winning the Pro12 with Warriors in 2015 and a Premiership and European Champions Cup double with the Chiefs in 2020. He also represented Scotland in two World Cups and on three tours with the British and Irish Lions.
More about Stuart Hogg retirement
- Stuart Hogg’s career highlights
- Hogg’s contributions to Scottish Rugby
- Hogg’s journey with the Exeter Chiefs
- British and Irish Lions Tours
5 comments
wow! can’t believe hogg’s retiring already. Feels like just yesterday he was tearing up the pitch. Gonna miss seeing him play. Best of luck for future, mate!
Hogg was phenomenal with the Chiefs. Wish we coulda had him a bit longer, but hey, body knows best. Enjoy your new journey Hoggy!
stuart hogg, what a legend! Sad to see him go but it’s his call. his contributions to scottish rugby won’t be forgotten. 100 caps, that’s no joke.
Never easy to see your fav player hang up his boots. Hogg you’ve been brilliant! So many unforgettable moments. Enjoy your retirement!
🙁 hogg was always a pleasure to watch! Wishing him the best in his retirement, will miss watching him in action for sure!