Breaking: Luke Fitzgerald Forced To Retire From Rugby Through Injury

Luke Fitzgerald has this morning, announced his retirement from professional rugby with immediate effect.

The 28 year old Leinster, Ireland and British & Irish Lions back suffered a neck injury in the Guinness PRO12 final and has been advised to retire on medical grounds.

Speaking to leinsterrugby.ie, Fitzgerald said:

“I’ve had a wonderful rugby career which makes it easy for me to move on to the next stage of my life. It’s been an amazing journey in which I got to experience the highs and lows that come with professional sport and I have learned a huge amount from each experience. I’m now building on that foundation through completing my business degree.

“I’m very thankful for the opportunities I have had, the people with whom I’ve worked and the lifelong friends I have made. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the medical staff and coaches I’ve worked with throughout my career and at Blackrock College. It’s been an honour and a privilege to represent my province, my country and the British & Irish Lions during my career and I’m glad to finish my career as a ‘one club man’.

“The support I got whilst playing for all three teams during the good times and the tough times is something I’ll cherish and never forget for the rest of my life.

“I’d like to acknowledge my parents, Andrea and Des, my siblings Rachel, Rebecca, Sarah and Aaron for their incredible support throughout the course of my rugby career.

“Lastly, I’d like to wish everyone in Leinster and Irish rugby the best for the future and I look forward to taking my place in the stand supporting everyone in the future.”