English rugby legend, Emily Scarratt, announced her retirement from the sport, marking the end of an era after 17 years of outstanding career.
Scarratt, 35, is a two-time Women’s Rugby World Cup champion, shining in the 2014 triumph and being a key figure in the Red Roses’ victory in September 2025.
A player of a generation
England’s coach, John Mitchell, described her as “a player of a generation”, while RFU’s CEO, Bill Sweeney, called her a “role model for thousands”.
Scarratt retires as one of the best English players of all time, after a career that spanned 17 years at the top of the sport. She debuted for England in 2008 and won 119 international matches.
She has been a key figure in England’s dominance of women’s rugby in the northern hemisphere, winning 11 Six Nations titles. She also captained Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympics and won bronze at the Commonwealth Games with England in 2018.
In addition to being a great teammate and center, she also achieved several individual records and honors.
In 2019, she was named World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year and is also the all-time top scorer for the Red Roses, with a total of 754 points, with 54 tries, 158 conversions and 56 penalties.
Also occupies a unique place in English history in the men’s and women’s game. She is the first player to compete in five World Cups, a feat she achieved when she came off the bench in the Red Roses’ opening match against the United States in August 2025.
It has been the greatest privilege to wear the England shirt and represent my country for so many years.
Emily Scarratt
Scarratt expressed that rugby has given her everything, including incredible teammates, memories, and experiences that she will carry with her forever. Although she still loves the game, she feels it’s the right time to retire. She feels fortunate to be able to make this decision on her own terms and proud of everything she has achieved.Scarratt also highlighted the incredible transformation of women’s rugby, going from amateur to professional, an achievement she is immensely proud of. She thanked her family, coaches, teammates, and the incredible fans of women’s rugby for their support throughout her career.
Scarratt will continue to be involved with the RFU in a coaching and mentoring role, supporting the development of players and helping the next generation of talent.
The RFU’s chief executive, Bill Sweeney, highlighted Emily’s immense contribution to English rugby, both on and off the field, considering her a role model. He was delighted that she will remain part of the England Rugby family and continue to shape its future.
