In a heart-warming farewell, rugby icon Alun Wyn Jones received a standing ovation from #Toulon and #Clermont fans as he played his final match on Saturday.
The Welsh rugby legend, who joined Top 14 team Toulon as a temporary replacement during the World Cup, will not be continuing with the team beyond this season.
At 38, Jones decided to retire, marking his last game at Clermont's Stade Marcel-Michelin. Leading as captain, he was celebrated by the home team with a special presentation of a Clermont jersey before the match commenced.
During the 66th minute, with the score at a close 24-23, Jones was substituted by Adrien Warion, and the crowd rose in appreciation of the former Wales and British Lions captain. Acknowledging the warm gesture, Jones clapped back in gratitude.
Toulon's official Twitter account paid tribute, stating, "Alun-Wyn Jones is replaced by Adrien Warion. He is given a standing ovation by Marcel-Michelin. Thank you and congratulations for your great, exceptional career Mr. Jones." 🏉
In an unexpected turn, Jones was called back onto the field for the final two minutes, replacing Marius Domon. Toulon clinched a thrilling victory, 30-27.
Reflecting on his time at Toulon, Jones expressed his deep appreciation, "I owe a lot to the club. Four months might seem like a long time, but time flew by! I am enormously grateful to have had this opportunity.
"I think staying in one place for too long makes it feel like work, but here the players, the people at the club, the fans and the city have rekindled my flame, my love for this sport. I think it was important to me and my family. It gave me a different perspective on life and the game."
Jones, who decided to retire in November, had made up his mind to conclude his career by the end of last season, regardless of other offers.
His illustrious career includes a record 158 caps for Wales and 12 for the Lions, spanning four tours from 2009-2021, making him the world's most-capped player with 170 caps.
He led Wales as captain 48 times and announced his retirement from international rugby last summer after being named in Wales' World Cup training squad.
📸 X / marieannaellep
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