Saints double-winner North getting ready to hang up his boots
Former Saints star George North has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of this season.
North, who turned 34 earlier this month, played a key role as Saints claimed a memorable PREM and European Challenge Cup double during the 2013/14 season.
He had joined the club from Scarlets in the summer of 2013, having just shone on a British & Irish Lions tour of Australia, during which he provided an iconic moment as he carried Israel Folau on his shoulder with ball in hand during a Test match.
North went on to show his class in black, green and gold as Saints won the PREM for the first time in 2014, beating Saracens in the final.
He eventually opted to return to Wales in 2018, signing a national dual contract with Ospreys before leaving for Provence amid financial uncertainty in Welsh rugby.
His spell in France has been hampered by injury. Having suffered a ruptured Achilles in his final Wales game, against Italy in March 2024, he did not make his Provence debut until January 2025.
He has made 16 appearances for second tier side Provence, four of which have come this season.
And North has now announced his decision to hang up his boots this summer.
"For me, it's the right time," North said in a video on social media.
"I have been able to live out my childhood dream for many seasons, playing with some of the best players, coaches and staff behind (the scenes)."
North, who is married to former world champion sprint cyclist Becky James, said he is 'still working on' on what the next chapter of his career will be.
"But I am excited to see where that journey takes me," he added.