RPA chief executive Damian Hopley insists young players could not ask for a "better role model" than Jonny Wilkinson.
RPA chief claims No.10's "dedication has left a lasting legacy"
RPA chief executive Damian Hopley insists young players could not ask for a "better role model" than Jonny Wilkinson.
Hopley has praised Wilkinson following the World Cup-winning fly-half's decision to retire from the international stage.
Wilkinson won 91 caps for England - plus a further six for the British and Irish Lions - and scored a total of 1,246 points during 13 years playing Test rugby.
During that time Wilkinson had battled back from a number of serious injuries, with his work-rate and dedication seeing him through some dark times.
World-class
Wilkinson, who came through the ranks at Newcastle, will now focus on his domestic form at Top 14 outfit Toulon.
Hopley said: "Jonny Wilkinson redefined the standards for rugby players in his extraordinary international playing career.
"He has been one of the consistently outstanding world-class athletes of his generation and you could not wish to meet a better role model.
"His capacity for hard work, continual improvement and dedication has left a lasting legacy by which future players will be judged.
"On behalf of every RPA member, I would like to thank Jonny for everything he has done for rugby in England and we all wish him continued success for the remainder of his playing days in Toulon."
