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3w ago

France Lock Paul Willemse, 32, Retires Immediately Over Concussions

His announcement follows nearly a year without playing for Montpellier or France.

Paul Willemse (L) moved to France in 2014 to join Grenoble
South African-born French international calls it quits
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Overview

  • Paul Willemse confirmed his decision in a social-media statement, calling it the hardest choice of his career after multiple concussions.
  • He has not played since October 5, 2024, when he left after five minutes in Montpellier’s Top 14 loss to Stade Francais.
  • He ends his international career with 32 caps for France, having qualified in 2018, and he was part of the 2022 Six Nations title-winning squad.
  • At club level he spent a decade with Montpellier after arriving in 2015, making 156 appearances and scoring 34 tries, including a Top 14 title.
  • His retirement lands as World Rugby and the English and Welsh unions face a legal case from about 300 players over concussion protection standards.