Ulster prop Marty Moore retires to 'prioritise mental wellbeing'

The 33-year-old won 10 caps for Ireland.

Mon, 23 Sep, 2024 - 19:34

PJ Browne

Ulster tighthead prop Marty Moore has retired from rugby on medical advice. In a statement, the province said he has decided to "prioritise his mental wellbeing".

The 33-year-old spent six years at Ulster after moving there from Wasps. He had come through the player pathway at Leinster, making his debut in 2012.

Moore won 10 caps for Ireland and was part of the squad which claimed Six Nations titles in 2014 and 2015. He left Leinster in 2016 and spent two seasons at Wasps.

He suffered a serious knee injury in early 2023 but returned to play for Ulster once again last season.

“On behalf of everyone at Ulster Rugby, past and present, I would like to say thank-you to Marty for all that he has given to the club over the past six years, which has seen him rewarded with 94 caps for the province," said Ulster head of operations Bryn Cunningham.

“I think we can safely say that Ulster saw the best of Marty through a distinguished career where he became a cornerstone of the team. That’s testament to not only his application but also the trust built up over the years with all the senior professional staff who worked tirelessly to support his performance.

“With many stand-out moments in an Ulster jersey, we know that our supporters will take the time to join us in celebrating an outstanding career.

“We wish Marty, and his family, the best for his future and we will continue to support him in every way possible. He can hold his head high as one of the Ulster men who made the province his home and made a huge contribution on the pitch.”