Keirin Lake: Wales center announces retirement from rugby

Injury ruined Lake’s international career, but her grit and determination saw her make comeback after comeback.

She achieved her goal of being fit for the World Cup finals last summer, but a shoulder injury suffered in a pool match against Canada was the death blow.

Maintaining her modesty, Lake chose to announce her retirement via social media, without much fanfare.

“After much thought, it is time for me to step away from the game that has given me so much,” she wrote.

“Rugby has been a part of my life for longer than I can count. It has shaped my identity.

“I am so grateful to all the coaches I have worked with along the way. Thank you for your guidance, belief and pushing me to be better every day. To the management and medical staff, your hard work behind the scenes does not go unnoticed, and I could not have done this without you.

“To my teammates, past and present, thank you for the memories, friendships, battles and laughs. It has been an honor to stand alongside you to represent something bigger than ourselves.”

Lake also thanked fans for their continued support, and her family for their “unconditional love and support.”