Munster prop John Ryan to retire at end of season after 'dream' career
Munster's John Ryan leaves the field after makes his 250th appearance for the club. Pic: Dan Sheridan/Inpho
Munster prop John Ryan is set to call time on a “dream” 16-year career in professional rugby after announcing on Thursday he will retire at the end of the season.
The 37-year-old Corkman has played 256 times for his province across three spells, during which time he earned 24 Ireland caps.
Ryan, who has played at both loosehead and tighthead prop, currently sits third in Munster’s all-time appearances roll of honour behind fellow prop Stephen Archer (304) and Donnacha O’Callaghan (263), having made his debut against Cardiff in September 2011.
He has also played for London Irish, on loan in 2012, Wasps in 2022 and for New Zealand’s Chiefs during the 2023 Super Rugby campaign under current Munster head coach Clayton McMillan, bringing his total professional appearances to date to 309.
He earned his Test debut for Ireland against Canada at Aviva Stadium in November 2016 and featured in every game of the 2017 Six Nations, making his first international start against the USA the following summer.
Ryan was a Grand Slam winner with Ireland in 2018 and that summer also helped Joe Schmidt’s side to a summer series victory over Australia. He also made an appearance at the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
“I have enjoyed every minute of the journey but it’s time to hang up the boots,” Ryan said in a statement issued by Munster Rugby on Thursday.
“It has been a dream to represent Munster for so many years. It was also a massive honour to represent Ireland and to play at a World Cup.” Ryan paid tribute to his family, clubs and the coaches who helped harness his rugby ability to enable him to compete at the highest level.
“It would never have been possible without Muskerry RFC and CBC Cork for growing my love for the game and UCC and Cork Con for helping me develop into a professional rugby player.
“To all my coaches over the years, from underage to present, all the S&C’s and physios, thank you for helping me along the way. I would never have made it this far without your input.
“To my parents for always supporting me - driving me to games, buses and trains at all times of the day and night. My rugby career would not have been possible without you. To my siblings for coming to Munster and Ireland games over the years and for the calls and messages of support whether we win, lose or draw.”
The tighthead veteran also had words of thanks for the current Munster dressing room and the province’s loyal supporters.
“To my team-mates, past and present, you have made the last 16 years so enjoyable. I have laughed myself sick in dressing rooms, team rooms and on the training field. The trips away and Irish camp are standout memories.
“To the fans who never stop believing, you have no idea how important it is to the players you support. I will always have fond memories in the Munster jersey but the away days were always made extra special by the red army!
“I’d especially like to thank my wife Zita for always being there supporting me, every step of the way. For picking up the pieces when it was all falling apart and for travelling across the world when an unexpected opportunity came knocking. I wouldn’t have played as long as I did without your love and support. Also my 3 kids, Felix, Gaia and Rex who love coming to the games and are my biggest supporters. They are the reason I play.
“I will forever be grateful to have worn the Munster jersey and I look forward to supporting from the stands in the years to come.
“I am excited for the next chapter and to spending a lot more time at home with my wife and kids.”
Head Coach McMillan recalled Ryan’s arrival in Hamilton when he joined the Chiefs in 2023. The Irishman helped his franchise to the Super Rugby final.
“Along with being a brilliant player, John is an outstanding team man and character who has added a huge amount to every environment he has been in,” McMillan said.
“I first met him in 2023 when he flew across the world to join us at the Chiefs and the way he and his family settled in so quickly and became such an integral part of that group showed what special people they are.
“John and his family can take great pride in all he has achieved on the field. From playing at the top level on the international stage to making so many appearances for his home club along with experiencing different environments in England and New Zealand.
“He’s had a unique journey but it’s not over yet and he will continue to make a massive contribution to Munster Rugby on and off the pitch in his final months at the club.”
Ryan, from Berrings, Co. Cork, returned to Munster from the Chiefs ahead of the 2023-24 season and has made 51 appearances since, 12 so far this season, reaching the 250-cap mark.
Since returning, Ryan has made 51 appearances, including 12 so far this season, with his services relied heavily on by incoming head coach McMillan following the retirement last summer of Archer and with senior tightheads Oli Jager and Roman Salanoa sidelined for long periods through injury.
Conor Bartley was signed from AIL Rugby but has also been injured and Munster are believed to be looking for an overseas, Non-Irish Qualified tighthead as their replacement for Ryan, using up the impending NIQ berth that will become available following this summer’s expected exit of South African wing Thaakir Abrahams.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
