One of England's most celebrated rugby stars, Emily Scarratt, has officially announced her retirement from professional rugby, drawing the curtain on an extraordinary 17-year career that cemented her status as a true legend of the women's game.
The 34-year-old centre, whose last international appearance came in the 2022 Rugby World Cup final, confirmed her decision to step away from the sport after careful consideration about her future in the game.
A Stellar International Career
Scarratt's international journey has been nothing short of remarkable. With 108 caps for England and two for the British and Irish Lions, she stands as one of the most decorated players in women's rugby history. Her 302 points in Test matches remain a national record, showcasing her consistent excellence on the international stage.
Her crowning achievement came in 2014, when she delivered a player-of-the-match performance in England's World Cup final victory over Canada, scoring 16 points including a spectacular try that demonstrated her game-changing abilities.
Club Legacy and Future Plans
At club level, Scarratt has been a cornerstone of Loughborough Lightning's success in the Allianz Premier 15s. While her final season was disrupted by injury, her impact on the team and the league has been immeasurable.
In her retirement statement, Scarratt expressed both sadness and excitement about her decision: "It's been a privilege to play for both club and country for so long, and I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunities rugby has given me."
Transition to Media and Coaching
While hanging up her boots, Scarratt won't be leaving rugby entirely. She has already established herself as a respected pundit and commentator, with plans to continue her media work alongside potential coaching opportunities.
The rugby community has been quick to pay tribute, with England Rugby describing her as "an icon of the game" and praising her immense contribution to women's rugby both on and off the field.
Her retirement marks the end of an era for English rugby, but her legacy as a World Cup winner, record-breaker, and inspirational figure will continue to influence the next generation of players for years to come.
