English rugby legend, Emily Scarratt, has announced her retirement from the sport. The 35-year-old player, a two-time Women’s Rugby World Cup champion, shone in the 2014 triumph and was a key figure in the Red Roses’ victory in September 2025.
A unique player in a generation.
Scarratt retires as one of England’s best players, after a 17-year career at the top of the sport. She debuted for England in 2008 and won 119 international matches.
She was 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 2019, she was named Women’s World Rugby Player and is the all-time top scorer for the Red Roses, with 754 points, 54 tries, 158 conversions and 56 penalties. She is the first player to compete in five World Cups.
Scarratt expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country for so many years and her love for the game. She feels fortunate to make this decision on her own terms and proud of everything she has achieved.Scarratt also thanked her family, coaches, teammates, and fans of women’s rugby for their support. She was excited to remain involved with the RFU and help shape the future of the game.
Scarratt will take on a specialist coaching and mentoring role with the RFU, focusing on player development and the training of the next generation of talent.
The Red Roses coach, John Mitchell, praised Scarratt as a unique player in her generation, highlighting her quality, calmness, and leadership ability. RFU CEO Bill Sweeney highlighted her contribution to English rugby, both on and off the field, and her role as a role model.
