Wales great George North has announced he will call time on his professional rugby career at the end of the season. 

North, who made his international debut in 2010, confirmed his decision on Wednesday. 

The 34-year-old represented Wales 120 times and is third on the all-time list of men's most capped players behind Alun Wyn Jones (158) and Gethin Jenkins (129).

Across those appearances, he scored 47 tries, with only Shane Williams (58) managing more for Wales, while he also lifted four Six Nations titles and two Grand Slams. 

Speaking on social media, Wales' most-capped men's back said: "I just wanted to let you know that at the end of the season I'll be retiring. 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 me.

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

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

Over and out pic.twitter.com/1dCVN6wIqM

— George North (@George_North) April 29, 2026

North made his debut for Wales against South Africa in November 2010, becoming the third-youngest player to play for his country behind Tom Prydie and Norman Biggs.

On that day, he also became the youngest player in almost 117 years to score a try on his debut for Wales, at 18 years, 214 days, surpassing Tom Pearson, who was aged 18 years, 238 days when he went over against England in 1891.

He is also the youngest rugby player to win 100 international caps for his country, achieving this milestone at 28 years and 320 days old in February 2021 against England.

In a professional career spanning 16 years, North represented Scarlets, Northampton Saints, Ospreys and most recently Provence Rugby at club level.