Two-time World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year announces his retirement ‘after an incredible 10 years’ as coaching role awaits
USA Sevens star Perry Baker.
Following a 10-year stint as a player with the USA’s Sevens team, legendary flyer and two-time World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year, Perry Baker, has announced his retirement from the shortened version of the game.
His illustrious career started in American football, and he only made the switch to rugby union following a training camp with NFL outfit the Philadelphia Eagles.
Baker will venture into the next chapter in his life as he starts his off-field career as an assistant coach through the end of the year with the USA men’s Sevens team.
The 38-year-old is widely recognised as the USA’s best ever Sevens player and made his World Rugby Sevens Series debut under former USA head coach Mike Friday in 2014.
Impressive start to Sevens career
He made an immediate impact on the Sevens circuit and his excellent form earned him a spot on the World Rugby Rookie of the Year shortlist following the 2014/15 series.
Baker was the USA Eagles’ top try-scorer (48) during the 2015/16 campaign and finished second-highest in that category on the series. His outstanding performances for his country saw him crowned as World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year for the first time in 2017.
During the 2017/18 season, Baker passed Zack Test to become USA’s all-time leading try-scorer at the 2018 Hamilton Sevens tournament. Baker secured that milestone in only three years with the squad.
In 2018, he was named World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year for the second successive year. Baker currently leads the USA Men’s Sevens team in tries scored and sits second on the HSBC SVNS Series’ all-time list.
He has also represented his country at three Olympic games, following Rio de Janeiro 2016 with appearances in Tokyo in 2021 and Paris earlier this year.
“After an incredible 10 years representing the USA Men’s 7s program, the time has come for me to step away from the game that has shaped so much of my life,” said Baker on his retirement.
“It’s been an honor and a privilege to wear the jersey and represent my country on the world stage. From the moment I joined the team, I could never have imagined the experiences, the highs and lows, and the lifelong friendships rugby would give me.
“Year one of my journey was especially life-changing as I met my amazing wife, and together we built our family. To my wife and family, I couldn’t have done this without your endless support and love. You’ve been my anchor, and I’m grateful for the sacrifices you made so I could pursue my dream.”
‘Thank you for believing in me’
He added: “To my team-mates, coaches, staff, and everyone in USA Rugby, thank you for believing in me, pushing me, and making every moment memorable.
“To the fans, rugby isn’t just a sport, it’s a family and you guys made me feel that everywhere I went. And to rugby itself, thank you for teaching me resilience, teamwork, and leadership that will live with me forever.
“As I step into the next chapter, I carry with me all the lessons, memories, and connections this game has given me. I’m excited for what’s to come and how I can continue giving back to this amazing sport.”