Anthony Watson retires: Former England Rugby World Cup and Lions star is forced to quit at 30 due to ‘horrendous’ injury problems
- The celebrated international star has been forced to retire due to troublesome injuries
- Repeated physical problems have hampered the star over the past two years
- England head coach Steve Borthwick congratulated the winger on his retirement
Anthony Watson has announced his retirement from rugby for medical reasons after a distinguished 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 struggled with injuries over the past two years.
The flying wing, who started his career with London Irish, won 56 caps for his country and won three Six Nations titles.
He toured twice with the Lions in 2017 and 2021 and played at two World Cups in 2015 and 2019.
Watson said: “My overarching feeling is pride.
“I am proud and blessed to have done what I have done during my career: to have represented my family, my country and two of the biggest 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

The 30-year-old has unfortunately struggled with injuries over the past two years

The flying wing, who started his career with London Irish, won 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 ultimately I wanted to share a moment with my children on the pitch. I can say I did all those things.”
He had previously described his recovery from back surgery as ‘terrible’ during an interview with the BBC in October, stating: ‘It’s been a terrible road, six or seven months, I’ll be honest. It was frustrating and it was bigger than just a muscle injury or a tendon injury; it was more serious.”
Watson’s remarkable pace and eye for the try line saw him quickly become an international regular after making his debut in 2014. His time in the game has been cruelly cut short.
England coach Steve Borthwick said: “Anthony is to be congratulated on a fantastically successful career. I was fortunate to have coached Anthony at both Leicester and England.
“He is a humble, hard-working professional man who is universally loved and admired in the game. Not only did Anthony bring his incredible talent to the England shirt every time he played, but he was also a player who took immense pride in representing his country.
‘We all wish him the best in the next chapter and thank him for everything he has done for the England team.’
Leicester managing director Richard Wilks added: ‘On behalf of the club I would like to thank Anthony for his contribution to Leicester. Although his time at the club has not gone exactly as he or the club would have liked, his presence and experience have been of great value.

Watson made 122 appearances for Bath before ultimately deciding to leave the club in 2022

Watson’s remarkable pace and eye for the try line saw him quickly become an international regular with England and the Lions

England coach Steve Borthwick was full of praise for Watson after his retirement was confirmed
“His commitment to getting back on 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 represented Leicester during his decorated career.
‘We are happy to see him continuing to make an impact outside of his playing career.
“He will always be welcome at Leicester and we wish him and his family all the best in their next chapter.”