England Rugby Star Anthony Watson Retires at 30 Due to Back Injury

The Leicester Tigers and British & Irish Lions winger ends his career after 56 England caps and multiple Six Nations titles.

Anthony Watson, 30, retires from professional rugby following a persistent back injury that began in early 2024.
He played 56 tests for England, scoring 23 tries, and represented the British & Irish Lions in two tours (2017 and 2021).
Watson's career highlights include three Six Nations championships, with the 2016 Grand Slam being a standout achievement.
In addition to international success, Watson had a club career spanning London Irish, Bath, and Leicester Tigers, where he played his final match in December 2024.
England coach Steve Borthwick and others praised Watson for his professionalism, talent, and dedication throughout his career.