England Rugby World Cup winner Abby Dow has shocked her fans by announcing early retirement at the age of 28.
Former England national rugby team member Abby announced her retirement on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
As reported by BBC, the former England player said she had taken a brave step to pursue her career goals.
Making a formal statement to the Rugby Football Union, Abby said: “Rugby has played a pivotal role in my life and has shaped me into who I am today. However, I feel the pull of my other passion, engineering, so I have decided to hang up my boots and try my luck in a different world.”
Abby is regarded as one of the most outstanding finishers of her generation as she scored 50 tries in just 59 Tests after her debut in 2017.
She was an integral part of the Red Roses’ victorious World Cup campaign, but decided to leave rugby behind and pursue her career in engineering.
Red Roses head coach John Mitchell said: “We are losing the best winger in world rugby at the peak of her powers, but we fully respect her decision to move on to a new chapter.”
In addition, Abby won seven Six Nations titles with England, including six Grand Slams and two WXV1 victories.
She also precipitated Red Roses’ World Cup Final victory over Canada on September 27, 2025.
Abby revealed she had plans to study mechanical engineering after completing her degree at Imperial College London.
While I gave an exclusive interview to BBCAbby said: “I know I could go to another World Cup, I could go on a Lions tour. I appreciate that these are big things, but I’m also excited about the different chapters of my life.”
Abby Dow worshiped her brilliant rugby journey as an incredible opportunity for growth.
“I’ve had five years as a professional athlete that I would never regret and I think I’ve given as much as I can in this form of the game and I’m just ready for the next step.”
Additionally, former rugby player Abby is best known for her off-field crochet artwork.
Abby is known for producing ‘yarn bombing’ accessories and was often seen as her favorite hobby.
Shortly after the 2025 Rugby World Cup, Abby’s fans quickly adopted her style and often wore crochet accessories.
