Wales legend Alun Wyn Jones has described his career as a "dream come true" after announcing his international retirement. The 37-year-old called time on his 17-year Test career on Friday, just hours after teammate Justin Tipuric announced he was also retiring on a day of shocks in Welsh rugby.
In a lengthy statement, Jones thanked his teammates, coaches, family and fans for their support throughout his glittering career, which saw him play a record 158 times for Wales and in 12 Tests for the Lions over four tours in 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2021. You can follow live reaction to his and Tipuric's announcements here.
He explained that he had been engaged in "ongoing dialogue" with Welsh coaching staff having been named in Warren Gatland's 54-man training squad less than three weeks ago. Having become Wales' most-capped player ever and won five Six Nations championships, the lock also revealed what he considered to be "his biggest achievement".
Here's Jones' message to Wales in full:
"Having been selected in this year’s preliminary Rugby World Cup squad, and after ongoing dialogue with the coaching staff and the WRU, I have decided to step away from the international game. So, after 17 years I look back on special memories with Welsh greats and future Welsh greats."
"My grandfather and father both nurtured my passion for rugby in my younger days which has continued throughout. The opportunity to be professional in the sport I love was a dream come true and to represent my home region, the Ospreys and clubs within the region, namely Mumbles and particularly Bonymaen who guided me in my formative years, was beyond special and something for which I am hugely grateful."
"A huge thank you to the staff and players who have been part of my journey, I wish you all well for the future. To the supporters, thank you for the support and making the most special occasions even more memorable.
"To the people closest to me, my family, I couldn’t have done it without you. Through injury, loss and success, you’ve always been there and will be for whatever’s next. Despite all I have accomplished, my children will always be my biggest achievement.
"Diolch, Alun Wyn. Cymru am byth."
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