Wales great George North announces he will retire at the end of the season - 'I've been able to live out my childhood dream'

North, 34, has represented Wales 121 times and scored 47 tries for his country.

He posted a video on social media on Wednesday morning revealing he plans to hang up his boots this summer.

"Hi guys, just wanted to come on here and let you know at the end of the season I'll be retiring," he said.

"For me, it's the right time. I've been able to live out my childhood dream for many seasons, playing with some of the best players, coaches and the staff behind.

"I can't thank my family, my friends and you guys enough for the support you've shown me over the years. Honestly, it's meant the world to me."

Across a professional career which has lasted 16 years, North was a mainstay in the Wales national team and played for Scarlets, Northampton Saints, Ospreys and Provence Rugby at club level.

Known for his power and speed from the wing, North made his professional debut for Scarlets against Benetton Treviso in September 2010 and became an international phenomenon when he scored two tries on his Wales debut against South Africa aged just 18.

In doing so, he became the youngest player in 116 years to score a try on his debut for Wales.

North became the youngest try scorer in Rugby World Cup history when he touched down twice against Namibia in 2011. During that tournament, he also became the first teenager in world rugby to score 10 Test tries.

North quickly established himself as one of the most dominant wingers in rugby and he became a vital cog in the success Wales had under head coach Warren Gatland, helping the team win Six Nations Grand Slams in 2012 and 2019, and further titles in 2013 and 2021.

He finished his international career ranking third on Wales' all-time appearance list and second on their men's try scorers. He is also the youngest rugby player to win 100 international caps for his country.

Wales paid tribute to NortH on social media, saying: "Thank you for everything George."

North featured on two British & Irish Lions tours in 2013 and 2017, scoring four tries in seven appearances. He started all three Tests for Warren Gatland’s side in 2013 in Australia.

He provided two moments which have gone down in history on the 2013 tour of Australia, firstly his long run from his own half in which he beat four players to score and then picking up Israel Folau and running with the ball at the same time.

"A true force of nature calls time on an incredible career," the Lions Instagram account said. "Thank you for the memories. Wishing you all the best in the next chapter."

At club level, North helped Northampton win the Premiership title in 2014.

As for what comes next for North, he says he is still making up his mind.

"The next chapter? Yep, still working on that one but I'm excited to see where that journey takes me," he said. "So again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Diolch."

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