Prince William pays tribute to ‘very best’ star following retirement announcement

Patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, Prince William, paid tribute to rugby legend George North, who has recently announced his impending retirement from the game.

In a social media post on Wednesday evening, the Prince shared the iconic video of North picking up Israel Folau and driving him backwards during the 2013 British and Irish Lions’ tour of Australia.

It’s a clip that has become synonymous with the former Welsh international, who was once arguably the best winger in the northern hemisphere.

Admiring the 34-year-old, Prince William wrote: “Strength and speed on the pitch, George North at his very best.

“So many special memories, from Wales Six Nations triumphs to that unforgettable moment on the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.

“Thank you, George, for everything you’ve given to Welsh rugby. Wishing you all the very best for the future. W.”

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“I’ve been able to live out my childhood dream”

This show of gratitude comes just days after North announced his retirement via social media. The post, shared on X, read: “Hi guys, I just want to come on here and let you know at the end of the season I’ll be retiring.

“For me, it’s the right time. I’ve been able to live out my childhood dream for many seasons playing with some of the best players, coaches and the staff behind.

“I can’t thank my family, my friends and you guys enough for the support you’ve shown me over the years.

“Honestly it’s meant the world to me. The next chapter? Still working on that one, but I’m excited to see where that journey takes me.

“So again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Diolch.”

North enjoyed many years at the top of the game, turning out for the Scarlets, Northampton Saints, Ospreys, and, in the final period of his career, Provence, in the second division of French rugby.

With 121 caps, George North sits third on Wales’ all-time men’s appearance list, behind Alun Wyn Jones (158) and Gethin Jenkins (129). He also holds the record as the youngest player to reach 100 international caps for Wales, hitting the milestone aged 28 years and 320 days on 27 February 2021 against England.

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