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Welsh International Jonathan Thomas has announced his retirement from the international stage on the medical advice from his doctors. He was diagnosed with epilepsy last year which is thought to be from multiple head traumas and has led to a degree of brain injury.
The forward said, “I've done everything in my power to keep playing. However, there comes a point when you realise you need to listen to medical experts and also do what's best for your well-being,” as BBC reports.
“The highlight of my career has been representing Wales”
Thomas went on to make 67 appearances for Wales, after having made his debut against Australia in 2003. He had scored 7 tries for the Wales national rugby team.
He added, “I'm keen to stress there are many different types of epilepsy and I'm fortunate to only suffer from it in a mild way compared to some. Naturally though, it has proved too difficult to continue as a professional athlete."
He is also the winner of 2005 and 2008 Six Nations Grand Slam, however, he played just a single game in 2005.
But according to Thomas, his first priority has always been playing for his nation. He added, “The highlight of my career has been representing Wales. I grew up as a mad Welsh rugby fan and to have played with so many great players, won two Grand Slams, played in two World Cups and gained 67 caps, is something I used to dream about as a youngster. I will always remember fondly the trophies and accolades won, but for me the game of rugby is about the people you meet along the way.”
He ended by saying, “I hope I've been a good team-mate and have shared some hilarious experiences with many great lads."
The 6ft 5in high flanker joined the Welsh regional team Ospreys in 2003 from Swansea. He went on to make 188 appearances for Ospreys in his 10-year stint at the club. Later on, Thomas joined Worcester in 2013 and was immediately asked to captain the side in the 2013-14 season. He went on to sign a further 2-year extension with the club until the end of the 2016-17 season.
The Worcester forward tweeted the confirmation from his official twitter account:
He even thanked his agent for his help throughout his playing career:
