France Lock Willemse Retires Immediately After Multiple Concussions

Paul Willemse, the South African-born lock who represented France in 32 Tests, has announced his immediate retirement from rugby due to multiple concussions. Willemse, who played for Montpellier and was part of France’s 2022 Six Nations Grand Slam-winning team, last appeared in October 2024 before being sidelined by head injuries. He described the decision as the hardest of his life, expressing gratitude to coaches, family, and supporters while reflecting on the profound impact rugby had on him. His retirement highlights ongoing concerns about concussion risks in rugby, with several former players also forced to retire or facing health issues related to repeated head trauma. The sport’s governing bodies are currently under legal scrutiny for allegedly insufficiently protecting players from concussion-related harm. Willemse’s departure underscores the growing awareness and consequences of concussion in professional rugby.