Johnny Sexton says he will retire from the game after the World Cup.
The 36-year-old made the announcement on Tuesday afternoon after signing a contract extension.
It is up to me to work hard, get the body and mind in the best shape possible, and attack the last 18 months of the World Cup.
I still want to perform at the World Cup.
The former World Player of the Year has won 103 international caps and 500 Six Nations points.
I just want to make the most of this last 18 months of my career and go out on top,' said Sexton, who has captained the Ireland team since 2020.
I am happy to be able to say it. I have been beating around the bush for six months, always nervous about the World Cup when you aren't there.
It was always my intention to try and stay at the top of my game and I am very thankful that I have the chance to do that. I have to keep the body in good shape.
I still want to perform at the World Cup. That was a big factor for me. I talked to a lot of guys who had big regrets over the World Cup and I have a chance to do that now.
It is a long time away and we have a lot in front of us but it is great to get it sorted. He said it would be easy to sign another contract if he was enjoying his rugby and Ireland and Leinster thought he could add value.
I am excited about the prospect of competing at a fourth World Cup with Ireland and the potential for growth in this group between now and then, because there is some great talent coming through at Leinster at present.
In 2009, he made his international debut and has represented Ireland at four World Cup.
The Dubliner has won three Six Nations titles with Ireland and five European Cups with Leinster. He has scored 1,548 points for his province.
David Nucifora, IRFU Performance Director, said that Johnny's performances continue to be of the highest standard and he remains an integral member of the Ireland and Leinster squad.
He has always been a leader on the field and in the past two years since taking on the Ireland captaincy his leadership has been top class. Johnny is a great player and we are happy that he will be with us for another five years.
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