2003 World Cup winner sold his winner's medal to the pay the bills
Yesterday at 04:41 AM
Rugby World Cup winner Ben Cohen has revealed he was forced to sell his 2003 winners’ medal to make ends meet during the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking on talkSPORT, the 46-year-old shared the heartbreaking story that left his former teammate, Phil Vickery, in tears.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
The Northampton Saints legend, a pivotal figure in England's historic campaign, was instrumental in Sir Clive Woodward's team defeating hosts Australia in the final. Cohen and his teammates are celebrated as one of the greatest sides in England's sporting history, but for Cohen, the glory came with challenges later in life.
“I sold my World Cup medal to survive”
During the interview, Cohen shocked the room by revealing: "I sold my World Cup medal to survive Covid. To survive." His confession left Vickery visibly emotional.
Cohen explained the financial struggles he endured: "I had nothing in Covid. Winning a World Cup medal is great – it's a story to leave your kids, something to talk about. But the reality is, I had no work. What is my work? I'll try to create, I'll try to do things. It's not that I'm lazy."
Join the RUCK's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
The Champions 2003 initiative
Two decades after England's iconic win, Cohen launched The Champions 2003 campaign, a project aimed at helping rugby players transition to life after professional sport.
"For me now, it's about paying it forward," he said. "Yes, it's my brainchild, but it's about creating a legacy and supporting my mates. When you transition into civilian life, where do you turn? People think professional sport is lucrative, but 99% of sports pay peanuts."
“I nearly lost my house”
Cohen also opened up about the devastating impact of the pandemic on his finances: "The bills kept coming, the interest kept accruing. I nearly lost my house. I paid far more than my policy required just to hold on."
As Cohen recounted his struggles, Vickery summed it up perfectly: "This is a classic example of blokes, not in a team environment, not showing weakness."
EDITORS PICKS:
- Racing 92's worst player?! Owen Farrell given miserable rating
- STATEMENT: Ireland star ruled out of opener against England
- Nigel Owens makes bold statement regarding new law for the 2025 Six Nations
- Dan Biggar predicts 2025 Six Nations table, bad for Scotland
- Six Nations Shock: Coach Sacked Just Days Before Kick-Off
You'll have to be red-hot to get 15/15 in this 2010s Six Nations quiz
Think you know the stars of the Six Nations from the 2010s? It's time to put your knowledge to the test with this thrilling multiple-choice quiz!
The Six Nations Championship, Europe's premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game's greatest players.
From stunning tries to epic battles, the 2010s were packed with rugby brilliance.
Can you name the players who lit up the tournament during this golden decade? You'll need to be on top form to get 15/15—are you up for the challenge? Let's kick off!
The post 2003 World Cup winner sold his winner’s medal to the pay the bills appeared first on Ruck.
