England Rugby Legend Emily Scarratt Retires After Historic Career and Second World Cup Victory
England rugby star Emily Scarratt has officially announced her retirement from international rugby, closing an extraordinary chapter in a career that redefined women’s rugby on the world stage. The 35-year-old centre, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, bows out just weeks after helping England secure their second Rugby World Cup title.
A Legendary Career That Defined an Era
Scarratt’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. Since making her debut in 2008, she has become the Red Roses’ all-time leading scorer, amassing an astonishing 754 points in 119 international appearances. Her consistency, leadership, and brilliance on the field have made her an inspiration not only for aspiring players in England but for rugby fans worldwide.
An 11-time Six Nations champion, 2014 World Cup winner, and 2019 World Rugby Player of the Year, Scarratt’s legacy is one of excellence, perseverance, and humility.
Reflecting on her decision, Scarratt said that representing her country had been “the greatest privilege” of her life.
“Rugby has given me everything — incredible teammates, unforgettable memories, and experiences I’ll cherish forever,” she said. “While it feels like the right time to stop playing, I’m excited to stay involved and help shape the future of this amazing game.”
A True Pioneer of English Rugby
Over the course of her 17-year international career, Scarratt achieved what few athletes ever do — she became the face of a generation. Earlier this year, she made history by becoming the first England player, male or female, to compete in five Rugby World Cups.
Her journey to that milestone was far from easy. Scarratt missed more than a year of play after suffering a serious neck injury in 2023, which required surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Despite the setback, her determination saw her return in time to take part in the 2025 Rugby World Cup, where she played a pivotal off-field role after a shoulder injury sidelined her early in the tournament.
Even while unable to play, Scarratt continued to inspire her teammates through her leadership and unwavering support, earning praise for her humility and dedication.
From Village Fields to Global Stardom
Born and raised in rural Leicestershire, Scarratt’s journey to rugby greatness began on the local fields of Lutterworth. Initially a promising all-round athlete, she famously turned down a basketball scholarship in the United States to pursue rugby — a decision that changed the course of her life and, ultimately, the sport itself.
Her natural talent was undeniable. Known for her silky running lines, intelligent playmaking, and accurate goal-kicking, Scarratt quickly established herself as a cornerstone of the England team.
Her defining performance came in the 2014 Rugby World Cup final in Paris, where she scored 16 of England’s 21 points in their dramatic victory over Canada — a display that remains one of the greatest individual performances in women’s rugby history.
Olympic Captain and Global Ambassador
In addition to her success in the 15-a-side format, Scarratt also made her mark in rugby sevens. She captained Team GB at the 2016 Rio Olympics, showcasing her versatility and leadership on one of the biggest sporting stages in the world.
Beyond her playing accolades, Scarratt became a global ambassador for the women’s game. Her professionalism, combined with her approachable personality, helped attract new fans and elevate women’s rugby into the mainstream spotlight.
Affectionately known by teammates and fans as “Scaz,” she became a role model for thousands of young players. Despite her success, she remained grounded, often downplaying her achievements and focusing instead on promoting team spirit and inclusivity within the sport.
Continuing Her Rugby Journey
Although Scarratt is stepping away from international competition, her influence in rugby is far from over. She will continue her coaching career at Loughborough Lightning, a Premiership Women’s Rugby club, while also taking on a new role with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) as a specialist coach and mentor.
“The women’s game is in an incredible place right now,” she said. “I’m proud to continue being part of its journey — just from a slightly different perspective. Coaching and mentoring young players is something I’m passionate about, and I can’t wait to help the next generation grow.”
Tributes from Across the Rugby World
Tributes have poured in from across the rugby community, celebrating Scarratt’s exceptional contribution to the sport.
Red Roses head coach John Mitchell described her as “a once-in-a-generation player” whose impact will be felt for years to come.
“Emily has been the backbone of this team for more than a decade,” Mitchell said. “Her skill, intelligence, and leadership have set the standard for what it means to represent England.”
RFU Chief Executive Bill Sweeney also praised Scarratt’s achievements, calling her “a true icon of English rugby.”
“Emily’s contribution to the game cannot be overstated,” Sweeney said. “She has been a model professional both on and off the field — a leader, a role model, and a huge influence on the thousands of girls who picked up a rugby ball because of her.”
Fans and fellow players have also expressed admiration online, sharing memories of her sportsmanship, humour, and kindness. Many recall her lighthearted personality — including the time fans began bringing her bags of croissants at matches after she mentioned her love for them on a podcast.
Resilience and Redemption
Scarratt’s career was as much about resilience as it was about triumph. After suffering her neck injury in 2023, some doubted she would ever return to top-level rugby. Yet she fought her way back, not just to fitness but to the pinnacle of the sport, helping England lift another World Cup trophy in 2025.
Her perseverance, particularly in the later years of her career, has inspired countless athletes to overcome adversity with courage and determination.
A Lasting Legacy
Even as she steps away from the pitch, Emily Scarratt’s influence continues to shape the future of women’s rugby. She played a key role in transforming the sport from semi-professional status to the thriving, televised, and globally respected competition it is today.
From her debut as a teenager to her final appearance as a five-time World Cup veteran, Scarratt’s career symbolizes progress — for the sport, for women’s athletics, and for every young girl dreaming of representing her country.
As England celebrates one of its finest rugby players, Scarratt’s name will forever be etched in the history of the game — not just for her records, but for her grace, passion, and unyielding love for rugby.