Well-travelled former England, Wasps, Sale and Melbourne Rebels player Danny Cipriani has retired from professional rugby, calling his decision a “sobering but also freeing moment”.
The mercurial 16-cap England back had not played since 2022.
But the 36-year-old has now officially called time on a colourful career that included two spells at Wasps as well as stints at Melbourne Rebels, Sale, Gloucester and Bath.
“I haven’t played for a while, but in my mind I left it open,” Cipriani wrote on social media.
“Messaging my agent as I sit outside (coffee shop) Costa, I realised I don’t want to play again. Sobering but also freeing moment.”
Cipriani made his England debut in 2008 with his last appearance coming against South Africa in 2018.
He joined the Rebels for the 2011 season, and scored the crucial penalty that earned the club their first-ever Super Rugby win, a 25-24 triumph over the ACT Brumbies.
There was no disputing Cipriani’s natural talent but off-pitch problems were a common theme of his career.
“Thank you to all the coaches I’ve had, taken lots away from each one of you,” Cipriani wrote.
“To the supporters who turned up and wore their heart on their sleeves, thank you for showing love throughout my career, special memories from all the fans of each team I played at.
“To all my team mates I played with, man I loved it, I know sometimes I could be relentless, we did have some fun out there though.
“Learnt so much throughout my career and when I reflect, I’m grateful for every moment.”
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