Anthony Watson: England and Leicester Tigers winger retires on medical grounds
“My first feeling is pride,” he told Tigers website., external
“When I started playing football I wanted to make my dad proud more than anyone, I wanted to be in the crowd with my parents playing for England and the Lions and ultimately I wanted to be on the pitch with my kids Share moments.
“I can say I’ve done all of those things.”
Watson, who joined the Tigers from Premier League rivals Bath in 2022, made just 23 appearances for the East Midlands club in the final years of his career.
Leicester describe the winger as “one of the most exciting rugby talents of his generation” and “one of the modern greats of English rugby”.
After making his debut with London Irish, Watson spent nine years at Bath, with his last appearance for the national team coming in the summer of 2023.
England manager Steve Borthwick – Watson also played for the Tigers – said the player “deserves congratulations on what has been a very successful career”.
“He was a humble, hard-working professional who was universally liked and admired in the football community,” Borthwick said.
“Not only does Anthony bring his incredible talent to the England shirt every time he plays, but he is also a player who takes great pride in representing his country.”
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