In 2018, Sam Jones announced his retirement from rugby at a young age of 26, citing an injury he sustained during England’s training camp.
Specifically, he suffered the injury in Brighton during a judo training session while being paired with Maro Itoje, just a day after playing for Wasps in a winning match against Harlequins on October 2, 2016.
Consequently, that game marked the end of Jones’ rugby career, as he never played another match after that.
“I feel guilty that I haven’t been able to be more transparent about my injury,” said Jones
The injury occurred while partnering up with Maro Itoje in the judo exercise and Jones says he doesn’t blame the England star.
“Maro Itoje has texted me several times throughout the process. I don’t blame him at all.
“There isn’t any [bitterness]. I’m lucky to have experienced what I did. You play the hand you are dealt and you get on with life.
“The intensity of the environment is geared to take you out of your comfort zone at all costs and at that time it was working.
“I suppose that’s what happened — I was out of my comfort zone and that was the aim. These things happen.”
NEW CAREER:
He now manages a restaurant in London.
Summary: “Top-quality Sri Lankan food” – full of “interesting flavours” – draws an appreciative crowd to this modern venue “in the heart of Soho”, where the kitchen combines carefully sourced British produce with South Asian spicing. It’s run by former Wasps rugby player Jones, with consultant Zeren Wilson advising on the low-intervention wine list.
5 England rugby players now making it big in business after smart investments
With the time in elite sport forever shortening, rugby players would be smart to look to the future and invest in businesses too, like these current and ex-pros…
When they’re not smashing each other on the pitch, rugby players with one eye on the future could do worse than taking steps into the world of business.
If they’re lucky, professionals might enjoy careers lasting about 15 years in the sport – and taking up a job as a coach or media pundit after retirement isn’t for everyone.
No sector has been left unturned by players from across all levels of the game in their investments as they seek to set themselves up for life and regain focus after hanging up their boots.
Here’s some of the most prominent rugby players to have made waves in business.
Jack Nowell
The England and Exeter Chiefs winger is the co-owner of The Swordfish Inn back in his hometown of Cornwall.
Sitting on the harbourfront, the pub has been a favourite of local fishermen, artists and visitors alike for as long as anyone cares to remember and is well-known for its rugged charm and atmosphere.
He is also a director of MUSTARD Clothing.
