FORMER IRELAND, LEINSTER and Connacht winger Adam Byrne has announced his retirement at the age of 29.
The Kildare man has called time on his career after an injury-plagued couple of years.
Byrne played 66 times for Leinster – scoring 24 tries – before joining Connacht for the 2022/23 campaign.
The 29-year-old struggled with injury and non-selection throughout the year and left Connacht at the end of the season having featured six times, scoring three tries.
Byrne had been linked with a move to Major League Rugby before confirming his decision to retire.
A former Ireland U20 and Sevens international, Bryne was capped at Test level in 2017, starting in the 28-19 defeat of Argentina during the November international window.
Byrne announced his retirement with the following statement on Instagram: “The time has come for me to hang up the boots.
“Never in a million years did I think rugby would bring me on the journey it has.
“The highs were some of the best days of my life, and the lows taught me a lot of valuable lessons.
“I want to thank everyone who supported me on my journey, all of the kind words, messages and gestures went a lot further than you ever could have imagined.
“A special mention to all of the clubs I have represented. From my early days at Naas RFC and UCD RFC, to Leinster, Connacht and Ireland.
“So many coaches, teammates, staff, medical teams and supporters helped me on my way, and I’ll forever be grateful to all of you.
“The biggest thanks to my family and close friends. I’d like to think I gave it my best shot and I hope I did you all proud with every opportunity I got.
“I’ll look back with only the fondest memories of my rugby career. The game has given me some of my best friends, experiences I could only dream of, life lessons and the opportunity to discover and understand myself as a person. It also gave me a few scars for good measure!
“A mention to those who have helped me in developing the next stage of my life. Rugby Players Ireland, UCD Ad Astra, and all those individuals who have given me advice and support (and continue to do so).
“Finally to the team at Output Sports, who have helped make the transition into my next chapter as seamless as possible. Thank you Martin, Darragh and Jules.
“I’m hugely excited to embark on this next chapter and bring everything I have learned from rugby with me through life.
“If I can be of help in any area, particularly to the younger players please reach out.
“Also please connect if you’re involved in Health, Fitness and Sport as I start my next journey.”
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