The 34-year-old won 93 caps for his country and won two Six Nations titles, including one Grand Slam
Wales star Liam Williams has announced his retirement from international rugby.
The 34-year-old back made his international debut in 2012 and went on to win 93 caps for his country, scoring 21 tries playing at three Rugby World Cups and winning two Six Nations titles, including one Grand Slam victory. He also toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2017 and 2021, while he won the Pro12 title with the Scarlets and both the Premiership and Champions Cup with Saracens.
Williams, who also represented Cardiff and Japanese side Kubota Spears, joined Newcastle Red Bulls at the start of the season and will continue to play at club level for the Gallagher PREM outfit.
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His last international appearance came in Wales’ 2025 Six Nations opener against France, having been left out of Steve Tandy’s squads for the recent autumn and upcoming Six Nations campaigns.
Announcing his decision to hang up his boots in a statement shared on social media, Williams wrote: “I have decided that the time has come to say goodbye. The three feathers. My home. Thank you.
“I turned professional in 2011, and earned my first cap for Wales in 2012. Over the following 14 years, I had the privilege of representing my country 93 times, something I could never have imagined when I was growing up.
“The trophies. The wins. But also the losses. They all taught me something.
“From working as a scaffolder in Port Talbot steelworks, to pulling on that famous red jersey. It’s been a journey built on hard work, sacrifice, and the support of so many people along the way.”
Williams continued: “The dedicated and loyal Welsh fans. Amazing team mates, great coaches, the backroom staff and friends. I will miss the buzz of the changing rooms. The clashes with opponents who also became mates.
“The banter with team mates, the highs and the lows. The countries I was fortunate to visit and the experiences along the way. To also represent the British & Irish Lions on two tours, and earn five caps, is an experience I’ll always be grateful for.
“To my wife Sophie and our little boy Leo, thank you. You’ve been my rock, and you’ve both given me a whole new perspective on what truly matters in life.
“I also want to thank my close family for the unwavering support over the years,” he added. “Without you none of this would have been possible. I hope I made all of you proud.
“I step away from international rugby with no regrets, only pride, and gratitude, for the opportunity given to me. Diolch.”
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