Stuart Hogg has publicly reflected on his retirement from rugby, calling it the “biggest mistake” of his life. The former Scotland rugby star, now 33, stepped away from the sport in an attempt to mend his marriage but later faced serious personal challenges.
Revelations on Marriage and Mental Health
Earlier this year, Hogg was given a community payback order after admitting to abusing his estranged wife, Gillian, over five years. This admission followed a difficult period marked by struggles with mental health.
Struggles during Retirement
- Hogg won 100 caps for Scotland.
- He participated in three British and Irish Lions tours.
- During his retirement, he felt lost and was “up to his eyeballs in antidepressants.”
- Alcohol became a means of escape as he battled with his mental state.
The former Exeter Chiefs full-back confessed that he genuinely did not know his identity or how to navigate his emotions at the end of his rugby career. “I missed the buzz, the changing room, the banter,” he shared in an interview with The Rugby Paper.
Turning Point
Hogg’s perspective began to shift following the Doddie Aid cycle ride from Scotland to Rome. This event reintroduced him to the sense of teamwork he had missed since leaving rugby. He described a pivotal moment when he realized, “I’ve made the biggest mistake of my life.”
This reflection highlights the profound impact that sports can have on an individual’s identity and mental well-being. Hogg’s journey underscores the importance of addressing personal challenges and seeking help during difficult times.
