Former Lions starter Jack McGrath retires at 33

Former British & Irish Lions Test starting prop Jack McGrath has retired at the age of 33.

A free-agent, McGrath departed Ulster at the end of the last URC season, having first signed for the Irish province from Leinster in 2019.

He was hit by hip injury issues for much of his last season in Belfast and underwent further medical treatment since his departure nine months ago.

This morning he announced his retirement. “I have made the decision to retire from professional rugby after deep thought and consideration. A decision that has taken a considerable amount of time, it has been one of the hardest I’ve ever had to make.

“I have spent a long time reflecting on my career over the last number of weeks/months and realise how fortunate I have been to wear the most famous jerseys in the game. My brother Stephen always told me “You will play for Ireland and you will be a Lion”. This was a huge drive for me throughout my career and I am glad I can close this chapter knowing I kept my promise and made him proud.

“The last few years have been extremely testing for myself and my family, both mentally and physically. I feel I have given everything to my rugby career and I have no regrets or anything left to prove. It’s been a long road of rehabilitation after two hip resurfacing operations. My main focus now is my family and I am excited for this next chapter with them.

“I’d like to thank everyone at St.Mary’s College, St. Mary’s Rugby Club, Leinster Rugby, Ulster Rugby, Irish Rugby and the Lions who believed in me and helped me to achieve my dream.”

McGrath was first capped for Ireland in 2013 against Samoa and has won 54 caps for Ireland to date and featured in all three Tests on the 2017 British and Irish Lions Tour of New Zealand. He is a Six Nations winner with Ireland in 2014, 2015 and 2018.

He made his debut for Leinster in 2010 against Glasgow Warriors and has made over 140 appearances for the Province, winning three Heineken European Cups, an Amlin Challenge Cup, a Guinness PRO14 title and two PRO12 titles.