Five-time Super League champion Makinson to retire

Tommy Makinson, the esteemed five-time Super League champion and former England international, has announced his retirement from professional rugby league at the end of the current season. Born in 1989, Makinson made a name for himself between 2011 and 2024 while playing for St Helens, where he claimed five Grand Finals and a Challenge Cup.

Makinson's final game will be with his hometown team, Wigan Warriors, on Friday, 11 September. The Catalans Dragons winger's decision to retire comes after their 42-20 defeat to the Huddersfield Giants, which all but sealed their slim play-off hopes. In a post on social media, Makinson expressed his gratitude for the opportunities and experiences rugby league has afforded him, stating, "Rugby league has been incredibly kind to me."

Reflecting on his journey, Makinson shared, "I've been very fortunate to live out a dream I had as a kid and represent some of the biggest clubs in England and France, and also the pinnacle which is representing my country." Despite still having a few games left, Makinson emphasized his intention to savor every moment and give his all to conclude his career on a high note.