Joe Marler Announces Retirement from England Rugby at 34

Joe Marler has retired from international rugby, closing a career that saw him earn 95 caps over more than a decade. Marler, 34, debuted for England during the 2012 summer tour of South Africa and contributed significantly to three Six Nations-winning teams in 2016, 2017 and 2020. He also represented England in three World Cups including the 2019 final where they lost to South Africa.

Reflecting on his career, Marler expressed his gratitude for experiencing both “mega highs and mega lows” in an England jersey, promising to cherish all those memories. As a longtime Harlequins player, Marler joined the British and Irish Lions’ 2017 tour to New Zealand, though he didn’t play in a Test. He retired briefly in 2018 but returned before the 2019 World Cup.

In 2023, Marler joined Steve Borthwick’s squad for the autumn internationals but later withdrew due to personal reasons. Recently, Marler apologized after sparking controversy by calling the New Zealand haka “ridiculous,” acknowledging he should have handled the situation better. In a social media post, Marler explained why he knew it was the right time to step back, emphasizing that his priority now lies with his family.

“I can’t keep talking about my family being my priority unless they actually are,” he wrote, adding that he wants to preserve his career memories by leaving England rugby on his own terms. Head coach Steve Borthwick praised Marler’s contributions to English rugby, highlighting his unique personality and energy within the squad. “Joe has served English rugby outstandingly… a one-of-a-kind personality,” Borthwick noted.

BBC rugby correspondent Chris Jones described Joe Marler as one of England’s best-ever props, suggesting Marler’s influence will continue to resonate even as he steps away from the international game.