Former Ireland out-half Ian Madigan announces retirement 

RETIRING: Former Ulster playmaker Ian Madigan in 2020. Pic: ©INPHO/James Crombie

Former Ireland out-half Ian Madigan has announced his immediate retirement from professional rugby.

34-year-old Madigan - who plied his trade with Leinster, Ulster, Bristol Bears and Bordeaux Begles - retires due to ongoing injury trouble throughout the last number of years, but insists his situation 'is not a sad story'. 

Having come through at Leinster in 2009, Madigan amassed more than 250 appearances over his 14-year professional career, winning two Six Nations titles with Ireland and two Champions Cups, two URC titles and a Challenge Cup at club level along the way.

In a statement on his Instagram account, the 31-cap Irish international said his time in the green jersey is something he savours to this day:  "Without doubt the highlight of my career was representing our great island of Ireland, in particular at the World Cup in 2015.

"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."

In the emotional farewell statement, Madigan recalled the special moments of success he had, not only with Ireland, but in the blue of Leinster. 

“We were blessed with success on the pitch. But more importantly a special group of players and staff.

“We pushed each other hard, and were incredibly tight off the field; the rounds of crazy golf, card games, BBQs, there was never a dull moment.

“I naively thought every club would be like you.”