Nathan Sweeney, Professional Rugby Player Steps Away from the Pro Game at 24

Edinburgh Rugby’s Nathan Sweeney, 24, has announced he is stepping away from professional rugby “for now” due to ongoing injury issues.

Sweeney, who signed a one-year contract extension last May after missing most of the 2023-24 season with injuries, shared a heartfelt message on social media. He said, “After months of reflection and advice from knee specialists, I’ve made the tough decision to step away on medical grounds. This isn’t how I pictured my career unfolding, but it’s the right choice for me.”

This season, Sweeney played just once for Edinburgh’s first team in the EPCR Challenge Cup against Gloucester and appeared as a substitute for Emerging Scotland. Injuries continued to hamper his progress, and he was recently named among 12 players leaving Edinburgh at season’s end.

Reflecting on his time with the club, Sweeney expressed gratitude for the memories, friendships, and the chance to represent his boyhood team. He thanked teammates, coaches, medical staff, and especially his family for their support.

A former Scotland U18 international, Sweeney joined Edinburgh’s academy in 2019-20 but faced a long-term injury early on. He returned to play for Heriot’s in 2021-22 before making his professional debut against Connacht in March 2023.