Rugby Union Star Jenkins Retires After Stellar Career
Cardiff, Wales – Seasoned rugby union player Ellis Jenkins has announced his retirement from professional play, capping off a storied career that saw him reach the pinnacles of the sport both at the club and international level.
After rising through the ranks of the Cardiff system, Jenkins cemented his name in Welsh rugby history in 2012 when he led the national under-20 side to a historic victory over New Zealand, becoming the first team to achieve that feat. He followed that up a year later by guiding the junior Welsh squad to a second-place finish.
Jenkins’ crowning moment at the club level came in 2018 when he captained Cardiff to their second European Challenge Cup title in Bilbao. He would go on to lead the senior Welsh national team on their 2018 summer tour against South Africa and Argentina, delivering a man-of-the-match performance against the Springboks at the Principality Stadium.
Tragically, Jenkins’ career was derailed shortly after when he suffered a significant ACL knee injury. The setback sidelined him for 26 long months, but the resilient player fought his way back, making 43 more club appearances and earning four additional test caps for Wales, including a comeback against South Africa in 2021 and another stint as captain against Fiji.
“It’s been tough physically and mentally but I’m enormously proud of everything I have achieved in my career,” Jenkins reflected. “Particularly coming back from such a big injury to play for Cardiff and Wales again.”
Ultimately, Jenkins has decided to hang up his boots, content with the impressive legacy he leaves behind.
“The highs are things like Bilbao, derbies and European occasions at the Arms Park, winning my first cap and captaining Wales, but also experiences, travel and friendships rugby has given me,” he said. “I have been fortunate and am grateful to everyone who has supported me on my journey.”
As he looks forward to the next chapter, Jenkins expressed excitement about “enjoying rugby from the terrace with a beer, doing all the things I could not do as a player and leading a fit and active life with my young family.”
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