This week, Ireland and Munster star Andrew Conway retired from all forms of rugby because of his ongoing injury problems.
After struggling to overcome a knee injury that ruled him out of the last United Rugby Championship season and the Rugby World Cup, the 32-year-old has decided to call time on his career with club and country.
During his international career, Conway won 30 Ireland caps after making his debut in 2017 and scored 15 tries. He also played 150 times for Munster and is the province's third-highest scorer with 50 tries.
Unfortunately, Conway played his 150th and final game for Munster at Thomond Park last month.
Speaking about his retirement, the Munster star explained why he has decided to retire from the game. He thanked all the medical professionals also who tried their best to help him get back on the rugby pitch.
“Unfortunately, I have been advised to retire from professional rugby because of a knee injury,” he said.
“An incredible amount of work has been put in by the Munster and IRFU (Irish Rugby Football Union) medics to get me back, and I can’t thank you all enough for your commitment. Thank you to all the backroom staff I’ve been lucky enough to cross paths and work with over the years. You know who you are. A special mention to Damien Mordan, Keith Fox, Dr. Jamie Kearns, and Dr. Ciaran Cosgrave for your care and support through the years. Thank you to Rugby Players Ireland and my agents for your guidance in the past and into the future."
Former teammates were also mentioned. Munster's Graham Rowntree,Ireland's Andy Farrell, and his former Leinster and Munster colleagues received thanks for their efforts in shaping his journey.
Andrew Conway has today confirmed that he will retire from professional rugby with immediate effect.
Conway bows out after an outstanding career with some amazing memories.
Click the pic to read his statement.#ThanksAndrew #SUAF 🔴
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) November 9, 2023
“I’ve been very fortunate to have been coached by some fantastic people. Thank you all. In particular, to Felix Jones for showing me the way, Andy Farrell for having such belief in me, and Graham Rowntree for your support in these tough times.
“To my teammates from my first Leinster cap in 2010 all the way to my last Munster cap last month. It was an honour to go to battle with you all. I’m more grateful than words can express.
“Thank you to all those in Blackrock College, Blackrock College RFC, and Leinster Rugby for giving me my first opportunities in the game."
There was also a special mention of his friends and family for their unconditional support during his career. Conway is unaware of what will come next for himself but is excited to start a new chapter in his life.
“My love for Munster goes back to the 2006 European Cup final in Cardiff with my dad. I’ll never forget walking into the stadium to see it full of red jerseys, the cameras panning to O’Connell Street in Limerick… it was always Munster. To play for this great club was the best decision I ever made. Thank you to all the Munster supporters that embraced me as one of your own!
“Playing for Ireland was my dream come true. Singing the national anthem with my teammates, watched on by family and friends was the proudest I’ve ever been.
“To my parents and sisters, thank you for your unconditional support over the years. Through the ups and downs, I’ve always known you were there for me, and it meant so much to share the journey with you all.
“To my wife Liz, it’s no coincidence that my career started to take off when you moved down to Limerick. Your support and sacrifices over the years have driven me on more than you’ll ever know. Having you in the stands for game days always gave me comfort, and I’ll forever cherish the last day with yourself and Hailey in Thomond Park.
“Lastly, I’ll miss the big days in red and green but not as much as the daily pursuit and shared team goal of reaching our potential.
“I’m not exactly sure what is next, but I’m very excited to take all the learnings from the last 14 years into the next chapter.
“Forever Grateful.”
