Jonny Wilkinson accepted knighthood… only to find out he hasn't got one
Yesterday at 04:21 PM
Just over six months after retiring in a blaze of glory in 2014, it seemed as though Jonny Wilkinson got a little ahead of himself for the first time in his life.
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The England World Cup-winning number 10 was widely tipped for a knighthood in Queen Elizabeth’s New Year's Honours list and even tweeted what looked like the beginnings of a humble acceptance speech. Except, well, the honour never came.
The European and French champion with Toulon, known for his trademark perfectionism, quickly rowed back on his now-deleted Tweet and managed to save face. He gracefully congratulated all the "non-perfect people" who did make it onto the list.
Wilkinson, who famously kicked England to World Cup glory in 2003 and tackled like a human wrecking ball, remains one of the game's most admired figures. If anyone deserves a "Sir" before their name, it's probably him.
For now though, Jonny remains just a legend—and we're pretty sure he's okay with that.
The European and French champion with Toulon did manage to row back on his original (now deleted) Tweet to offer congratulations to all the non-perfect people who did make it on this year's list.
Maybe next year, JW.
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Alun Wyn Jones and Owen Farrell included on list of worst British & Irish Lions
The British & Irish Lions is the pinnacle of a player’s career – a chance to prove yourself against the very best. But not everyone rises to the occasion.
While some have cemented their legacies in red jerseys, others have left fans wondering how they even made the squad.
From unfortunate injuries to underwhelming performances, we take a look at some of the worst Lions players across different tours, with big names like Owen Farrell and Alun Wyn Jones making the cut.
2021 tour: Owen Farrell – The forgotten playmaker
Owen Farrell, one of the most recognisable and influential players in modern rugby, endured a tour to forget in South Africa. Despite his vast experience and reputation as a leader, Farrell was named by SA Rugby Mag as the worst-performing Lion on the tour.
Initially expected to play a key role, he started three games and featured off the bench in the first two Tests.
However, as the series decider loomed, head coach Warren Gatland made a brutal call – dropping Farrell from the matchday 23 entirely. It was a stark fall from grace for a player who was once considered indispensable.
WIN A TRIP TO THE 2025 LIONS:
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- 2 x Return flight tickets from the UK to Australia
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 2nd Test in Melbourne
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 3rd Test in Sydney
- 4 x Night's accommodation in Melbourne with bed & breakfast (24-27 July)
- 7 x Night's accommodation in Sydney with bed & breakfast (28 July-3 Aug)
- 2 x Flight tickets Melbourne to Sydney including airport hotel group transfers
- 2 x Tickets to watch a private function with Lions legends
- Additional events to be announced
The winner will be part of the Lions supporters group with tour representatives on hand to oversee everything.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
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