Alex Lewington will retire from rugby at the end of the season after 15 years at the top of the domestic game. The 32-year-old has been a mainstay in the Saracens squad since 2018 after moving east from rivals London Irish.
Since 2018, Lewington has put on the Red and Black shirt on 130 occasions, and has scored 45 tries in that time, showing his remarkable try-scoring ability. His 62 tries in the top flight make him the 12th top try scorer in the history of the Premiership.
Speaking about his impending retirement, Lewington said:
“All good things must come to an end!
“I’ve decided to retire from professional rugby at the end of the current season. I can’t express what the sport has given me; friendships, purpose, happiness and the chance to live my dream.
“I’d like to thank Leicester Tigers, Nottingham Rugby, London Irish and Saracens. At Leicester I was brought into a professional environment which demanded I grew up fast and was a brilliant place to learn. Playing for my hometown team of Nottingham was very special to me and my family. London Irish gave me the chance to express and test myself in the Premiership and Saracens has shown me the highest levels this game can truly be played at. It’s where I’ve created a home.
“I’d like to thank my family for all the support they’ve given me. To my parents, thank you for allowing me to follow my dreams. Your unconditional love and support has meant the world to me. To my wife Laura, thank you for being an incredible sound board and locking things down at home when I’ve been away. Whether times have been good or bad, you’ve always had my back and I’m so grateful.
“I’ve had the privilege of playing with some amazing players and meeting some brilliant people. There’s been so many amazing days on the pitch but I’ve also loved every second of everything that comes with it.
“With that being said, there’s plenty of rugby to be played over the remainder of this season and I’m looking forward to ripping in with this special Saracens group.”
Fans have been sad to see the winger retire. Peter A Wilson said: “Cheers Lewi you’ve certainly shown everyone how to cross the line to dot down. Proud achievement as you always held into your winger’s shirt amidst stiff competition. Best wishes for your retirement n see ya at Bar for Ales ‘n Tales.”
Malcom Frenner added: “You’ll be missed Alex. Great player who always gave 105%”.
It’s been a day of retirements for Saracens, with women’s player Sonia Green also announcing that her time to step away from the game has come. With 300 club appearances, an England 7s captaincy and a series of England A caps, Green’s rugby CV can be framed with pride.
BARNET, ENGLAND – JUNE 11: Sonia Green of Saracens shows the Premier 15s trophy to the fans at half-time during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Semi-Final match between Saracens and Harlequins at StoneX Stadium on June 11, 2022 in Barnet, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Reflecting on her incredible career with Saracens, Green explained that she is hanging up her boots with memories and friends that will last a lifetime.
“After 22 incredible years with Saracens, I am hanging up my boots with a heart full of gratitude and memories that will last a lifetime. The camaraderie, the battles, and the victories have all shaped me into the person I am today. As I step off the field, I carry with me the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the legacy of a proud Saracen.
“Thank you to my teammates, coaches and everyone behind the scenes for an extraordinary journey. Retirement may mark the end of my playing days, but it opens the door to new adventures and opportunities. I am excited to embrace the next chapter in my life as well as focusing on my role of Vice Principal at Saracens High, driving the school forward and continuing to contribute to the club that has given me so much. Once a Saracen, always a Saracen.”
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