Scotland's record tryscorer Stuart Hogg announced his retirement from rugby union with immediate effect, saying his body could not take the strain anymore.
Hogg, who won 100 caps for his country, had announced in March that he would retire after this year's Rugby World Cup, where Scotland will face Ireland in Pool B.
The 31-year-old represented Scotland at two World Cups and captained them to two Calcutta Cup wins over England. Hogg also won the Champions Cup and Premiership in 2020 with Exeter Chiefs and was a three-time British and Irish Lions tourist.
"It is difficult where to start but with great sadness and an enormous amount of pride, I am announcing my immediate retirement from playing rugby," said Hogg.
"I fought with everything I had to make the Rugby World Cup but this time my body has not been able to do the things I wanted and needed it to do. We knew this day would come eventually, I just never thought it would be this soon.
"It's hard to put into words just how much of an impact the game has had on my life. I will be retiring knowing that I have given my body and heart to rugby."
Hogg made his debut for Scotland in February 2012 and notched up his 100th appearance in this year's Six Nations when he played against Ireland, signing off with the words "100 and out".
"He has been an outstanding player for Scotland and has had a career lit up with so many achievements, highlights and special memories," said Scotland coach Gregor Townsend.
"To reach 100 caps this year was fitting and just reward for a career that has seen him represent the British and Irish Lions and win trophies both domestically and at a European level.
"We respect his decision to step away now and understand the stresses and challenges his body has gone through in recent seasons."
