Ulster's versatile South African star retires

NEWS: Utility back Louis Ludik has announced his retirement from the professional game after seven years with Irish province Ulster.

The 34-year-old South African, who has 112 Ulster caps to his name, moved to Belfast from French club Agen in 2014.

He spent the early days of his playing career honing his skills in Super Rugby with the Lions and Sharks.

His move to Ulster marked the beginning of a seven-year stretch which included a try on his debut versus Scarlets; his 100th appearance in front of a packed-out Kingspan Stadium against the same Welsh side; and more recently, claiming a brace of tries when Ulster faced Dragons at home in this season’s Pro14.

Reflecting on his time with the club, Louis Ludik, said: "From the first moment it was announced that I was coming to Belfast, I was accepted, supported, and I felt at home.

"I gave it my all, every single time I stepped onto the field, to try and give back and continue the legacy of those who came before me, and to be deserving of the supporters who stood up for us, every week, without fail.

"Thank you to everyone who has made my time at Ulster – the place I now call home – so special. Now the time has come for me to Stand Up For The Ulster Men next to the field for the rest of my days."

Ulster head coach, Dan McFarland, said: "Louis’ contribution to the province will have a lasting legacy. As a top-class professional both on and off the field, we will miss what he brought to the club as a player and, more significantly, as a person where he brought a sense of enjoyment and positivity to everything he did.

"We wish Louis and his family the very best for the future and thank him for everything he has given to Ulster over the past seven years.”

Iain Henderson, Ulster captain, added: "Louis has brought so much to the club during his time with the province, and I would like to thank him for that on behalf of all the players he has ran out onto the pitch alongside, both past and present. He is a true Ulster man now, and we are proud to call him one of our own."

Source: @UlsterRugby

Main image: @UlsterRugby