ENGLAND JOE MARLER RETIRED: Joe Marler Bids Farewell to His England ‘Dream Bubble’ with Heartfelt Retirement
England prop Joe Marler has announced his retirement from international rugby after earning 95 caps
He made his England debut during the summer tour of South Africa in 2012 and was part of the teams that won the Six Nations in 2016, 2017, and 2020. Marler also represented England in three World Cups, including the 2019 tournament where they lost to South Africa in the final.
“It’s time for me to move on,” said the 34-year-old Marler. “I’ve been really lucky to experience both the highs and lows in an England shirt, and I will cherish all of them.”
Marler was also selected for the British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand in 2017, although he didn’t play in a Test match. He made one appearance for the Barbarians in 2019. After briefly retiring from international rugby in 2018, he returned before the 2019 World Cup.
Joe Marler (right) made his first appearances for England during the 2012 summer tour of South Africa
He was named in Steve Borthwick’s squad for the current autumn internationals but withdrew for personal reasons. Recently, he apologized for calling the New Zealand haka “ridiculous” and suggesting it should be “binned,” acknowledging he could have explained his thoughts better and expressing gratitude for the education he received since.
His last match for England was against the All Blacks in July, where he broke his foot and had to leave the field after 17 minutes.
“Playing for England always felt like I was in a dream bubble. I kept waiting for it to end, but you know when it’s time,” Marler shared in a social media post. “I can’t perform like I used to, and I need to prioritize my family. I want to preserve all the memories of my career, both good and bad.”
England head coach Borthwick praised Marler, saying, “Joe has been an incredible asset to English rugby—a fierce competitor on the field and a unique personality off it. We’ll miss his humor and energy, and we’re thankful for everything he’s contributed to England rugby.”
Marler noted that he has joked about retiring before, but at 34, this time it’s for real. His recent comments about the haka brought him back into the spotlight, and throughout his career, he never shied away from attention. Despite some controversies, he was a highly respected player and is considered one of England’s best props. Although he didn’t play in Saturday’s close loss to New Zealand, many believe his presence could have made a difference.
