Alun Wyn Jones, the world’s most capped rugby union player, has announced his retirement from the international game - less than four months before Wales' World Cup opener.
The 37-year-old, who played 158 times for Wales and made 12 British and Irish Lions Test appearances, has surprisingly stepped down on the same day that Wales flanker Justin Tipuric, who won 93 caps, had announced his decision to quit Test rugby. Wales face Fiji in Bordeaux in their World Cup opener on September 10.
The former Wales captain said in a statement: "Having been selected in the preliminary RWC squad and after ongoing dialogue with the coaching staff and WRU I have decided to step away from the international game.
"So, after 17 years I look back on special memories with Welsh greats and future Welsh greats. My grandfather and father nurtured my passion for rugby in my younger days which has continued throughout.
"The opportunity to be professional in the sport I love was a dream come true and to represent my home region, the Ospreys and clubs within the region, namely Mumbles and particularly Bonymaen who guided me in my formative years, was beyond special and something for which I am hugely grateful.
"A huge thank you to the staff and players who have been part of my journey, I wish you well for the future. To the supporters, thank you for the support and making the most special occasions even more memorable.
"To the people closest to me, my family, I couldn’t have done it without you. Through injury, loss and success, you’ve always been there and will be for whatever’s next. Despite all I have accomplished, my children will always be my biggest achievement.
"Diolch, Alun Wyn."
He had been a reliable staple for Wales since making his debut on a tour of Argentina in 2006. Now they must head in a different direction without their talisman, who was also Warren Gatland's Lions captain against world champions South Africa in 2021.
The start of 2023 had seen him no longer be an automatic starter for Gatland, left out of the starting lineup for the Six Nations meeting with Scotland. And while he, like Tipsuric, was named in the extended squad to begin preparations for the World Cup in France later this year, he has instead elected to step aside.
No official explanation was given by either for their abrupt decision, which adds to the challenge facing Gatland in the wake of a dismal Six Nations campaign on his return to the hot seat. Gatland described Jones as an "incredibly special" player and said his 17-year career had been "phenomenal".
"His leadership, dedication and determination are second to none, every single time he has taken to the training pitch or put on the red jersey," he added. "Al's passion and commitment for his country are limitless and he has been an important pillar for the game in Wales. He leaves a lasting legacy in Welsh rugby."
