Alun Wyn Jones: “I played with severe health condition in the final months of my rugby career”.
At the age of 38, he revealed that physicians in Toulon discovered that his heart rate resembled that of a galloping horse with six legs. Despite the identified risk, he chose to continue playing.
Former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain Alun Wyn Jones recently disclosed that he received a diagnosis of a heart condition during the final months of his rugby career. The 38-year-old, who had announced his retirement from international rugby in May, joined the French club Toulon on a short-term contract from July to November.
Jones explained to The Telegraph that his heart condition came to light during a comprehensive medical examination conducted at Toulon. Despite doctors discovering his heart rate was akin to a galloping horse with six legs, he decided to continue playing for the French club for four months. The diagnosis revealed atrial fibrillation, a heart condition characterized by an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate.
As the most capped player in world rugby history with 158 appearances for Wales and 12 for the Lions over a 20-year career, Jones, a father of three, expressed his desire to seize the opportunity. He had discussions with his wife Anwen before committing to play for Toulon and underwent heart surgery after concluding his playing stint in November.
Jones highlighted the need for increased player screening in rugby, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive welfare coverage. He acknowledged the potential risks associated with his decision to continue playing despite medical advice, noting the impact of cardiovascular exercise and stress on his condition. Despite the challenges, Jones saw his brief tenure with Toulon as a valuable opportunity to gain perspective on his career and life.
