Former Ireland out-half Ian Madigan has retired today. The 34-year-old announced his retirement at the age of 34 on social media
Madigan made his debut for his home province Leinster in 2009 and made 147 appearances for them. In 2016, he moved to the French club Bordeaux Bègles before joining the English side Bristol Bears in 2017. He then moved to Ulster in 2020 but has had his time with the Irish province curtailed by injuries. He played just 32 times for the province.
The Dublin native won two European Cups and two league titles with Leinster.
On the international scene, Madigan played a total of 31 times for the Ireland rugby team. His last appearance for Ireland came in the final game of the 2016 three-Test tour to South Africa, which Ireland lost. He won two Six Nations titles with his country during his career.
"Today I am announcing my retirement," said the former Ireland player via his Instagram. "I don't really know where to start, so it's best to start where it all began with Old Belvedere Mini Rugby, being coached by my Dad. 'All that matters was how many tries I scored, the Monster Munch and Cadet red lemonade would send me to the moon!' My love for rugby was born, the incredible memories.
The 34-year-old also thanked the likes of Kilmacud Crokes, his old coaches, Leinster, and former Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt.
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"Without a doubt the highlight of my career was representing our great island of Ireland, in particular at the World Cup in 2015," Madigan said.
"Those are memories that I will cherish forever. Thank you, Joe Schmidt, for backing me and teaching me how this great game can be played. You are a fantastic coach, but what I will always remember is how you treated me as a young man, challenging me to be the best that I could be and always filling me with confidence. Your record in Leinster and Ireland speaks for itself."
He also thanked Ulster's Dan McFarland for bringing him to Ulster in 2020.
"Thank you, Dan McFarland, for bringing me to Ulster. The final three years of my career were so enjoyable. I would love to have played more, but that's professional sport," he added.
"The relationships I've made with the players and staff in this great club are ones for a lifetime. I am proud to call myself an Ulster man and look forward to living in Belfast for the foreseeable.
"Thank you to the medical staff for rehabbing me back from my knee injury, last season in particular, Dr. Michael Webb, Dr. Ray Moran, Chris McNichol, David Minion, and Ali McFarland."
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