ULSTER’s Angus Curtis has announced his immediate retirement from professional rugby due to injury.
Following two concussions sustained earlier this season, the Zimbabwean-born back has been advised by a specialist that he should now retire from rugby.
Curtis said: “I’m sad to be ending things this way but, at the same time, I’ve loved my time at Ulster Rugby and in Belfast over the last seven years.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved with this amazing club, as you have all contributed to my time here in a positive way.”
A former Irish U20s international and graduate of the Ulster Rugby Academy, 25-year-old Curtis has earned 25 caps for the province, after making his senior debut in 2018.
“I’ve made some great friends and memories over the years here, and for that I’m extremely grateful,” said Curtis, who hails from Malone RFC in Belfast.
“[I’m] wishing the players and staff all the very best for the remainder of the season, and for the seasons to come. "
Ulster Rugby Head Coach, Dan McFarland, added: “Following Angus’ decision to retire from professional rugby, I would like to wish him the best for his future on behalf of everyone at Ulster Rugby.
“Angus has had a difficult number of years on an injury front, but has never failed to face those challenges in the same way he approached his rugby - front on.
“The qualities of humour, caring, smarts and toughness that he brought to the squad will make him successful in whatever he chooses to do.
“Everyone here is very disappointed to see him go because we will miss him as a person and a player.”
Angus comes from rich rugby stock, with his father, David Curtis, winning 13 caps for Ireland between 1991 and 1992, featuring in the 1991 Rugby World Cup, and his grandfather, Arthur, also winning three caps for Ireland in 1950.
