Statement: England legend and World Cup winner hospitalised
Yesterday at 03:59 PM
Former England rugby star Phil Vickery has been hospitalised for surgery, but the 2003 World Cup winner is already eyeing his comeback.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
Vickery, who has battled through divorce, bankruptcy, and a probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) diagnosis, took to Instagram to update fans after undergoing a procedure.
“Been fixed up team… big thank you to all the doctors and nurses for your help and support,” he wrote. “I've officially retired from rugby now—cuff repair and some old bits to clean up… all done and looking forward to rehab and getting back to building myself back up again… small steps.”
The former prop, who found solace in bodybuilding after retirement, gave a special shoutout to surgeon Mark Crowther, calling him "incredible."
Reflecting on his journey, Vickery previously shared how bodybuilding had given him a new sense of purpose: “I needed a challenge, something outside my comfort zone, and I thought shall I do a bodybuilding show? I was placed third. My genetics are crap, I’m not made to be a bodybuilder, but I loved the process.”
Despite his physical struggles, including neck surgeries and the mental toll of his past, Vickery is determined to push forward: “You can keep playing a game, telling yourself you’ll make it work. In the end, it caught up with me,” he said.
Expect to see him back in the gym soon, as Vickery remains focused on recovery and building himself back up.
DITORS PICKS:
- 'My rugby career was ended by Maro Itoje, I now have a completely new career'
- Bad News for Rugby Fans: 2027 World Cup Heading Behind a Paywall
- Lions fly-half rules himself out of Andy Farrell's 2025 tour selection
- Fiji set to face England in a thrilling lineup of four blockbuster fixtures
- Leaked England selection suggests Marcus Smith has been DROPPED
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
Get ready for a surprising revelation from renowned rugby referee Nigel Owens, as he unveils his list of the top five captains he has officiated.
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.
Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw’s dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.
Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.
Owens said: “Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch.”
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
The post Statement: England legend and World Cup winner hospitalised appeared first on Ruck.
