After an intriguing 18-month foray into the world of American football, Welsh speedster Louis Rees-Zammit has officially announced his return to rugby union.
The 24-year-old, who sensationally left the sport in January 2024 to pursue an NFL dream, confirmed his decision via social media, declaring, "It's time to come home."
Rees-Zammit's journey across the Atlantic saw him join the NFL's International Player Pathway Program.
He initially spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs and later signed an active roster deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars for the 2025 NFL season, even travelling to London for their games last October.
Despite his immense athleticism, he ultimately did not feature in a regular-season NFL game for either side.
His decision comes just a month after he hinted at a potential return, stating in an interview that international players typically get "two to three years to make it" in the NFL and he was mindful of returning to rugby at a prime age.
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Prior to his American adventure, Rees-Zammit had established himself as one of rugby union's most electrifying wingers.
He made a rapid impression after becoming Gloucester's youngest-ever Premiership player in 2018 and earned his Wales debut in 2020.
A standout Six Nations in 2021 saw him selected for the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa later that year.
He earned 32 caps for Wales, scoring 14 tries, before putting his international career on pause after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
His return is likely to be a significant boost for Welsh rugby, which has faced a challenging period, only recently ending an 18-match losing streak under newly-appointed head coach Steve Tandy.
While Rees-Zammit has not yet announced which club he will be joining, speculation is already rife, with former club Gloucester, as well as French Top 14 sides, potentially keen to secure his services.
The rugby world now eagerly awaits the next announcement from Louis Rees-Zammit, as one of the sport's most dynamic talents prepares to come home.
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