Wales and British & Irish Lions legend George North has declared that he will retire from professional rugby at the conclusion of the current season. The 34-year-old, who stepped away from international duty in 2024 after earning 121 caps and scoring 47 tries, confirmed the decision in a social media video.
"For me, it's the right time," North said. "I have been able to live out my childhood dream for many seasons, playing with some of the best players, coaches and staff behind the scenes."
North burst onto the Test scene as an 18-year-old, scoring twice on his debut against world champions South Africa in 2010, making him Wales' youngest ever try scorer. He went on to become the third most-capped Welsh men's player, behind Alun Wyn Jones and Gethin Jenkins, with only Shane Williams having scored more tries for the country.
His career highlights include four Six Nations titles, two Grand Slams, and two British & Irish Lions tours (2013 and 2017), where he played three Tests and scored two tries. He also became the youngest try scorer in Rugby World Cup history at 19 years and 166 days, and the youngest player to reach 100 international caps.
After starting his professional career at Scarlets, North moved to Northampton Saints in 2013, winning the Premiership and European Challenge Cup in 2014. He returned to Wales in 2018 on a dual contract with Ospreys before relocating to French second-tier side Provence amid financial turbulence in Welsh rugby.
His time in France has been hampered by injury, including a ruptured Achilles suffered in his final Wales match against Italy in March 2024. He made his Provence debut in January 2025 and has since featured 16 times, with four appearances this season.
North, married to former world champion cyclist Becky James, said he is "still working on" his next chapter but added, "I am excited to see where that leads."
"I have been able to live out my childhood dream for many seasons."
Throughout his career, North also faced well‑documented concussion issues, but his legacy as one of Wales' greatest players remains secure.