'One of the best of his generation' – British and Irish Lions star Liam Williams retires from rugby

By SABC Sport
25th March 2026

Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back Liam Williams has brought an end to his illustrious rugby career with immediate effect.

The 34-year-old won 93 caps for Wales during a glittering international career, which also saw him collect a Grand Slam and appear on two British and Irish Lions tours.

At club level, Williams won Premiership and Champions Cup titles with Saracens, as well as the PRO14 with the Scarlets.

Williams retires while on the books of the Newcastle Red Bulls after making just three appearances since arriving from Japanese side Kubota Spears last year

Announcing his retirement from the game, he said: "I've loved my time as a professional rugby player, during which time I've made so many great friends and enjoyed incredible memories.

"Unfortunately, injuries have meant I have not been able to contribute on the field as much as I would have liked during my time in Newcastle, but I would like to thank the club and our supporters for making my family and I feel so welcome during our time in the North East.

"It's a great club with a really exciting future, and despite my own playing opportunities being limited due to injury I hope I have been able to contribute positively behind the scenes towards the continued growth of the squad."

Sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: "Liam will rightly be regarded as one of the best players of his generation.

"He has been a consistent winner at club and international level for more than a decade, and despite injuries limiting his playing opportunities during his time in Newcastle, he has been a model professional in supporting and developing the players around him.

"He has been part of the first wave of Newcastle Red Bulls players, who will always be welcome here, and will hopefully remain strong ambassadors for our club and its ambitions.

"I have got no doubt that he still has a lot to offer the game, should he wish to remain in rugby, but first and foremost we just want to congratulate him on an outstanding career and wish him and his family all the best for whatever lies ahead."