Welsh international Sam Warburton, captain of the British and Irish Lions rugby team, has retired at 29 due to various injuries, the Welsh Federation and his Cardiff Blues club said on Wednesday.
The winger, who has combined 74 selections under the colors of Wales, and was captain 49 times, was forced to a long break last season, after knee and neck operations.
"Unfortunately, after a long period of rest and rehabilitation, I made the decision to retire, my health and well-being being a priority. My body is not able to return to the level I had hoped to resume training, " said Warburton.