‘I’d especially like to thank my wife Zita’.
Munster Rugby’s John Ryan has said it’s time to hang up the rugby boots, praising his wife Zita for being there with him throughout his career.
The dad of three has played for the province 256 times, putting him third on the all-time appearances list with Stephen Archer and Donncha O’Callaghan.
Making the announcement, the 37-year-old thanked those with whom he worked over the years, the Munster rugby fans, and a special mention for his other half.
‘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,’ he said.
John continued: ‘I wouldn’t have played as long as I did without your love and support.’
He went on to thank his three children, Felix, Gaia, and Rex, in his emotional post, saying they ‘love coming to the games and are my biggest supporters. They are the reason I play.’
Elsewhere in his statement, John said: ‘I have enjoyed every minute of the journey but it’s time to hang up the boots.
‘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.’
During his career, John earned 24 caps for Ireland and played at the 2019 World Cup.
