It wasn't supposed to be like this but the unfortunate news has come through that Paul O'Connell has been forced to retire from rugby entirely and will be unable to play for Toulon following the hamstring injury sustained at the World Cup.
Reports this week had been less than positive on O'Connell's prognosis with his Toulon debut no closer to becoming a reality. Now it has been confirmed that debut won't happen with the much deserved two year contract with Toulon being cut short before he was able to line-out for the European champions.
It has to be said, it's not fair. We'll eventually look to the positives and O'Connell won't be short of options for things to do but, at this moment, it's impossible to feel anything other than regret at how it ended for a true legend of Irish sport. He headed off to the south of France with everyone's blessing and if anyone deserved a long walk into retirement with a hefty bank balance and a few more trophies, it was him.
O'Connell has this morning released the following statement in his typical good grace.
It is with deep regret that I have decided to retire from professional rugby following medical advice. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all at Rugby Club Toulonnais for their understanding and support over the past few months.
Since sustaining the injury at the World Cup I have been fully focused on returning to fitness and starting an exciting new chapter for both myself and my family in Toulon. Unfortunately this will no longer be possible.
I have been blessed to be a professional rugby player for over 14 years and to be part of Munster and Ireland teams that have experienced success.
I have played with some of the best players to ever line out in the red of Munster and the green of Ireland and have had the privilege of captaining my country.
I would like to thank those at Young Munster RFC, Munster Rugby, the IRFU and Lions Rugby who have supported me over the course of my playing career.
Special thanks must go to my wife Emily for her unwavering support through the good and the bad and to my parents Michael and Shelagh.
Lastly I would like to thank everyone who has supported the teams I have been a part of. The support you have shown me is humbling and an immense source of pride for both myself and my family.
Incredibly poignant stuff and all that's left to say is thanks Paulie.
