The estranged wife of Stuart Hogg has said it is “time to start my next chapter” after the rugby player admitted abusing her.
Gillian Smith left the Scottish fullback earlier this year after around eight years of marriage.
Hogg, 32, pleaded guilty this week to a single charge of domestic abuse over five years between 2019 and 2024.
Having retired from international duty, Hogg is now looking to rebuild his career in France after signing for Montpellier in the summer.
The father of four is now awaiting sentencing on December 5.
The court heard Hogg berated his wife for “not being fun” after going on drinking binges with his colleagues, and sent “in excess of 200 text messages in a few hours despite having been asked to leave her alone”. Ms Smith reportedly had a panic attack due to the messages.
In addition, it was heard that Hogg used an app to track the movements of his wife.
Ms Smith is now in the process of divorcing her husband.
She has said in a post on Facebook: “Iv [sic] thought long and hard about a Facebook post, what to say, what not to.
"But there's nothing more important that needs to come from this than a thank you.
"Thank you to every single person who has reached out to me in ways of love, kindness and support - who have text, messaged, called, visited, sent flowers.
"Who have gave me a hi, a smile, a hug or even just a look to show they care.
"My friends and family have picked me up and carried me through this all and I'll be grateful forever for them all.
"I have been completely overwhelmed this week especially. The abundance of support and love has swamped me in the most positive way. Thank you."
She added: “Now, it’s time to start my next chapter. To move on and to keep showing my kids every day that strength comes from unconditional love and support around you, and even when it hurts, love wins.”
