World Cup Hero Jonny Wilkinson to Retire from Rugby at End of the Season

Jonny Wilkinson has announced his decision to retire from rugby at the end of the season.

The fly half who etched his name in English rugby history with his 2003 World Cup-winning drop goal announced his decision through his club's Toulon's website.

Having won 91 caps for his country across 13 seasons the 34-year-old will play two more games for the French club and will have the chance to end a glittering career with a Heineken Cup triumph against Saracens on Saturday.

"I would like to take this opportunity to formally announce my retirement from playing rugby," said the 34-year-old, who will turn 35 the day after Toulon's Heineken Cup final against Saracens on Saturday "It goes without saying that I have an enormous number of people to thank for their support from all around the world but especially here in France and in England.

"This however is not at all the time to be concentrating on this as I would like to focus all my attention and energy on the team and these final two games of the season.

"I sincerely thank you all for everything you have given me and for making these last 17 years something I will never forget."

Wilkinson will have the opportunity to conclude his career with a double triumph, with a Top 14 final against Castres to follow Saturday's final at the Millennium Stadium.

Having made his England debut at 18, Wilkinson won Six Nations titles in 2000, 2001 and 2003 before his infamous extra time drop goal secured a dramatic 20-17 victory over Australia in the World Cup final in Sydney.

While injury prevented him from reaching those heights again, Wilkinson's presence helped Brian Ashton's side reach the 2007 World Cup final before helping secure another Six Nations title in 2011 before retiring from international duty later that year.