A former Salford Red Devils winger who made a whopping 37 international appearances has retired from rugby league.
Rhys Williams started his career with Warrington Wolves, making his debut in 2010, and he’s now called time on his career after spending the 2025 season with Widnes Vikings.
Williams played 16 games for the Vikings in 2025, scoring 12 tries, having signed from Swinton Lions ahead of the season.
The 35-year-old is probably best remembered for his time with London Broncos and Salford Red Devils, scoring 100 tries during his time with the Broncos.
He also made an impressive 37 appearances for Wales, debuting in 2008 as an 18-year-old. During those 37 appearances, Williams scored an impressive 25 tries highlighting just how prolific he was.
News of his retirement from the sport was announced by current club Widnes Vikings with the Championship club to recognise him ahead of their game against London Broncos today, alongside fellow former Welsh international Rhodri Lloyd who is also hanging up the boots.
Ex-Super League winger Rhys Williams retires from rugby league
Widnes’ statement read: “Rhys Williams will draw the curtain on his Rugby League career at the end of the 2025, having announced his retirement from the professional game.
“The 35-year-old, who joined the Vikings this season, will call time on his career, which has seen him make over 350 senior appearances and represent his country on the international stage.”
His tally of 12 tries in 16 games this season leads the way for the Vikings who will finish in seventh if they manage to match or better the result of Doncaster.
Speaking on his decision, Williams said: “After a lot of thought, the time has come to hang up the boots. Rugby has given me more than I could ever have imagined: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the privilege of representing my country alongside some incredible blokes and coaches.
“To every coach and player I’ve had the honour of working with, thank you for shaping me on and off the field. To my family and friends, thank you for your endless support on the rollercoaster that is rugby league, and to my wife, I couldn’t have done this without you. Your support and sacrifice means the world to me, and I can’t wait to spend more time with you and Reina.
“It’s been one hell of a journey, and I’m truly grateful for every step of it.”
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Head coach Allan Coleman paid tribute, labelling him as a “model professional”, adding: “He leads by example and has really set the standards in our group this season.
“We can’t thank him enough; he deserves a massive send-off today alongside Rhodri Lloyd. We wish him all the best for the future.”
Rhys Williams will call time on his Rugby League career at the end of the 2025 campaign, having announced his retirement from the professional game.
Everybody at the club would like to wish Rhys all the best and thank him for his efforts…https://t.co/puA69EYLiL
— Widnes Vikings (@WidnesRL) September 14, 2025
