England prop Joe Marler retires from Test rugby
Before the Autumn Nations Series 2025 game between England and the New Zealand All Blacks at Allianz Stadium on November 2, 2024, Joe Marler from England was spotted observing the scene. (Image credit: Dan Mullan - RFU/The RFU Collection via Getty Images)
Experienced England player Joe Marler has declared his retirement from international rugby, concluding a career that includes 95 appearances for his country.
The announcement follows Marler receiving a lot of criticism for his remarks about the All Blacks' haka, which he suggested should be 'discarded.' He later expressed regret for those comments.
“Representing England always seemed surreal to me,” he shared on Instagram. “I kept expecting it to all come crashing down and for me to return to being a loud, overweight teenager. But deep down, you just know when the right moment has arrived.”
"I find that I can't perform the way I used to. I can't continue claiming that my family comes first if I don't truly prioritize them."
"I aim to preserve all the memories from my career, whether they are positive or negative. I don’t want to step out of my home with my children in tears. I’m prepared for this transition."
This morning, England Rugby officially announced the news, and head coach Steve Borthwick praised the loosehead for his contributions. He said, “Joe has been an incredible asset to English rugby – a fierce and determined player on the field, and a truly unique character off it. We’ll certainly miss his humor, playfulness, and the vitality he infused into the team. We appreciate everything he has done for England rugby, and even though we won’t see him in the England jersey again, he will forever remain a member of this team. Thank you, Joe.”
This isn't the first occasion that Marler has stepped away from international rugby, naturally.
Marler, at the age of 34, first took a break from international rugby in 2018, mentioning personal family matters and the importance of finding balance beyond the sport. However, he made a comeback to the England team the next year when Eddie Jones sought out seasoned players in preparation for the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
His return had a significant influence, with Marler contributing to England's run to the final, where they eventually lost to South Africa.
Highlight reel showcasing the talents of Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, a rising star from England and Exeter.
Highlight reel featuring Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, a standout player from England and Exeter.
In 2020, Marler temporarily stepped away from playing internationally, but Jones managed to bring him back into the team. His impressive scrummaging skills, along with his adaptability and vast experience, ensured that he became a consistent choice for both Jones' teams and, more recently, for Steve Borthwick's squad.
This recent retirement seems to signal Marler's final goodbye to international competition. Renowned for his fierce playing style and unique character away from the game, Marler has established himself as one of the most prominent personalities in English rugby over the last ten years.
With 95 appearances, he ranks among the top forwards in England's history. His wit and playful behavior off the field have also made him a standout personality in the world of sports.
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