English rugby must bid farewell to one of its greatest servants as Emily Scarratt announces her retirement at 35. The centre, who accumulated 754 points in 119 appearances for England, has decided to step away from playing while remaining involved in the sport through coaching and mentoring positions.
Scarratt’s career began in 2008 and quickly blossomed into one of sustained excellence. She became an integral part of the Red Roses squad that dominated the Six Nations, winning the championship 11 times. Her ability to perform consistently at the highest level enabled her to achieve something no other English player has done – participate in five World Cups. This remarkable feat speaks to her fitness, form, and importance to successive England teams.
The Loughborough Lightning player’s scoring record stands as perhaps her most impressive legacy. Her 754 points for England may never be surpassed, while her positions as third-highest cap winner and try-scorer further illustrate her impact. The 2019 World Rugby Player of the Year award recognized her status as the premier player in the global game at that time.
Scarratt’s 2014 World Cup campaign remains legendary in English rugby circles. She earned player of the final honors while topping the tournament scoring charts with 70 points, performances that helped England lift the trophy. More recently, at the 2025 World Cup, she made a single substitute appearance against the USA in the tournament opener, demonstrating her team-first attitude even as her playing time decreased.
The retiring star expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent England and pride in witnessing women’s rugby’s professionalization. She feels fortunate to retire on her own terms, something many athletes cannot do. Moving forward, she’ll serve as an assistant coach at Loughborough and take on a specialist coaching and mentoring role with the RFU, ensuring her knowledge benefits future generations of English players.