Ex-gloucester star Polledri is forced to retire
» FORMER Gloucester back row Jake Polledri has announced his immediate retirement from rugby after failing to recover from his “catastrophic knee injury” in 2020.
The Italy international has been beset by injuries ever since a devastating knee injury against Scotland four years ago, where he ruptured all three cruciate ligaments in his knee, tore his hamstring off the bone, tore his calf and fractured his leg.
After two years out of action, the 20-cap Italy international was able to return for the Cherry and Whites, signing a new contract with the club, and went on to earn a final cap for Italy in 2023 afer leaving for Zebre.
Polledri wrote on Instagram: “From Rugby Tots to a Rugby World Cup, over the past 20+ years rugby has been my life.
“My return to the pitch from my catastrophic knee injury in 2020 was tough.
“A lot of people wrote me off immediately, which didn’t deter me. From complete paralysis in my foot to 677 days later being able to run out at Kingsholm again. The support from the Kingsholm fans was immense and is cherished.
“Thank you to Gloucester for all the years of support, I could not have recovered this far without the incredible team of physios and S&C. Enabling me to uphold my promise to my late brother Sam, that I was to return to the pitch.
“My foot however hasn’t returned back to 100% and ultimately it has affected my ability to return to the high level of rugby I played, and it has also affected life generally. I have reluctantly accepted that my body and professionals are telling me to retire from the sport that I love.”