Rugby star Cipriani confirms retirement

Former England star Danny Cipriani confirmed his retirement from rugby union on Wednesday in a "sobering but also freeing moment".

Cipriani, capped 16 times by England, had not played since 2022 and was already "semi-retired" before finally deciding to officially hang up his boots.

The 36-year-old's colourful career included two spells at Wasps, as well as stints at Melbourne Rebels, Sale, Gloucester and Bath.

"Even though I've been semi-retired. This is my official announcement," Cipriani wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"I haven't played for a while, but in my mind I left it open.

"Messaging my agent as I sit outside 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.

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 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.

"Anyway, from a semi-retired now officially retired ex rugby player. I couldn't be more excited for right now, and what's in store in the future!"