WALES and Cardiff Rugby star Josh Navidi has been forced to announce his retirement from professional rugby due to a neurological neck injury that he picked up while on tour in South Africa last summer. The injury kept him sidelined and after much thought and consideration, he has made the difficult decision to step away from the game.
Navidi is widely regarded as one of the most respected back-row forwards in the sport and has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning 14 years. The 32-year-old was capped 33 times for Wales and made two appearances for the British & Irish Lions on their 2021 tour of South Africa, where he replaced the injured Justin Tipuric in Warren Gatland’s squad.
In a statement via his club Cardiff, Navidi expressed his deep sadness and immense pride in his decision to retire from rugby. He stated that although he knew that this day would come eventually, he never thought he would have to deal with the emotional impact of stepping away from the sport that has had such a significant impact on his life.
Navidi was quick to express his gratitude to everyone at Cardiff Rugby, where he began his career back in 2009. He thanked his teammates, staff, and supporters, saying that there were many memories made that would stay with him for the rest of his life. Running out onto the field at the Arms Park with his team-mates to their incredible supporters never grew old, and the club has always held a special place in his heart.
He went on to recount some of his most significant moments with the club, including winning the Challenge Cup in Bilbao in 2018 and winning against Toulon in a packed-out Arms Park. Navidi expressed his pride in everything he achieved in his career, whether with Cardiff, Wales, or the British and Irish Lions. He acknowledged that while he would miss playing, he was looking forward to the next chapter of his life beyond rugby.
Director of Rugby Dai Young paid tribute to Navidi’s contribution to the club and the sport. He acknowledged Navidi’s talent and consistency, which made him one of the best back-row forwards in the world over the past few years. He praised Navidi’s remarkable achievement in making 184 first team appearances for the club and winning 33 caps in such an abrasive position.
Navidi made his international debut against Japan in June 2013 and went on to play a crucial role in Wales’ success in the Six Nations, helping them to win three titles, including a Grand Slam. He has also been a tremendous asset to Cardiff, making 184 appearances for the club and winning the European Challenge Cup.
While Navidi will be missed on the field, his legacy in the sport will undoubtedly live on. Everyone at Cardiff Rugby wishes him the very best in his future endeavors beyond rugby.
