Ex-Wales and Lions full-back Williams retires

Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back Liam Williams has announced his retirement.

The 93-cap Wales international retired from international duty in January but has now called time on his club career – citing an ongoing knee injury as a factor behind his decision.

In a post on social media, Williams said: “Grateful for every memory, and a thank you to everyone who backed me along the way.

Williams scored 21 tries for Wales and won two Six Nations titles with his country, including the Grand Slam in 2019.

Williams, nicknamed ‘Sanjay’, played amateur rugby while working as a scaffolder in the Port Talbot steelworks.

He started his professional career with Scarlets – who he represented across two spells – and went on to have stints with Saracens, Cardiff, Japanese side Kubota Spears and Newcastle Red Bulls.

In a video posted on social media, the Swansea-born player said: “I’ve been a professional for 15 years, that takes its toll. I think it’s the right time for me to call it a day.

“I always thought I would go out on my own terms. Having knee trouble for the past few years has taken its toll.”

Williams – who paid tribute to coaches including Warren Gatland, Neil Jenkins and Nigel Davies – signed off with the message: “Lastly I’d like to thank all of the fans out there who supported me on the way.