Scotland star Stuart Hogg has announced he is to retire after this autumn’s World Cup.
Hogg earned his 100th cap in Round 4 of the 2023 Guinness Six Nations when Scotland took on Ireland, becoming just the fifth man to reach that milestone for his country.
He will hang up his boots as Scotland’s highest-ever try scorer, with 27 to his name so far, and is setting his sights on bowing out on a high in France.
“As a young kid growing up in The Borders all I wanted to do was to play rugby for Scotland,” Hogg said in a statement.
“I feel privileged to have represented my country on 100 occasions, play on 3 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.”
Hogg made his Scotland debut in the 2012 Championship, coming off the bench against Wales, and scored just seven minutes into his first start against France a fortnight later.
He went on to play a consistently starring role in the Six Nations and was named Player of the Championship in 2016 and 2017, becoming just the second player – along with Brian O’Driscoll – to win the award back-to-back.
The full-back took on the captaincy ahead of the 2020 Championship and went on to lead Scotland to consecutive triumphs against England, the first time they had achieved that feat in four decades, in 2021 and 2022.
Hogg’s Scotland form saw him picked for three British & Irish Lions tours. Injury ruled him out of the second of those, in 2017, but he played the first two Tests against South Africa four years later.
“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,” Hogg said.
“After the tournament, a new career beckons and I will attack in the same manner as I play the game. I hope I have done you proud.”
