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Discover the stories of five rugby players who lost almost everything after divorce and learn how their personal challenges reshaped their lives both on and off the field.
Rugby players often find it challenging to get married due to the potential consequences that come with it.
The demanding nature of their careers coupled with the spotlight of fame often puts immense strain on their personal lives.
While some manage to balance the pressures of professional sports and relationships others face devastating outcomes.
In some cases, divorce has left rugby players with nearly nothing as legal battles, financial settlements and emotional turmoil take a toll.
Pulse Sports delves into the lives of five rugby players who lost almost everything after divorce.
1.George Ford
The English fly-half George Ford faced immense personal struggles when his marriage unraveled.
The divorce process was not only emotionally taxing but also financially debilitating for the rugby star.
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Reports indicate that Ford’s ex-wife secured a significant portion of his earnings, leaving him to reevaluate his lifestyle and financial planning.
Ford’s troubles began when he was at the peak of his career, representing England in international tournaments and signing lucrative club deals.
The divorce proceedings, however, forced him to part with substantial assets, including a lavish home and a significant portion of his sponsorship income.
The financial blow impacted his ability to invest in ventures outside rugby, which he had planned as a safety net for his post-retirement years.
Emotionally, the situation was equally draining as Ford admitted in interviews that the divorce affected his performance on the field.
Struggling to focus during training and matches, he often found himself questioning his decisions.
Despite these challenges, Ford has slowly rebuilt his life, using his experiences as a cautionary tale for younger players about the risks of fame and financial mismanagement during personal crises.
2.Danny Cipriani
The charismatic and talented fly-half, Danny Cipriani endured a highly publicized divorce that significantly impacted his life.
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Cipriani’s legal battle with his ex-wife Victoria Rose reportedly left him with little more than his reputation to rebuild upon.
At the height of his career, Cipriani enjoyed fame, wealth, and a high-profile lifestyle. However, his marriage’s dissolution exposed vulnerabilities in his financial planning.
The divorce settlement stripped him of properties and a considerable portion of his earnings, forcing him to rethink his spending habits and career trajectory. The legal fees alone were a staggering burden, adding to his already mounting financial pressures.
Emotionally, the ordeal took a toll on Cipriani’s confidence. Known for his flamboyant personality, he withdrew from public appearances and struggled with the psychological weight of the divorce.
While Cipriani has since attempted comebacks in both his professional and personal life, the scars of his losses remain a poignant reminder of how quickly fortunes can change.
3. James Haskell
England international turned media personality James Haskell is another rugby star whose life took a sharp downturn after a tumultuous divorce.
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Haskell, once one of rugby’s most marketable players, saw his carefully built empire crumble as legal and financial battles drained his resources.
Haskell’s divorce coincided with his transition from professional rugby to a career in broadcasting and fitness entrepreneurship.
However, the financial implications of his separation severely hindered his ability to expand his ventures.
Reports suggest that Haskell lost millions in assets, including his dream home and several investment properties, as part of the settlement.
The emotional strain also affected Haskell’s mental health. Once a confident and outspoken figure, he became more reserved, admitting in interviews that the experience left him feeling isolated and vulnerable.
Despite these challenges, Haskell has worked tirelessly to rebuild his life, focusing on his media career and fitness brand.
4. Matt Dawson
Former England scrum-half and World Cup winner, Matt Dawson, experienced one of the most high-profile divorces in rugby history.
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Dawson’s split from his wife not only made headlines but also highlighted the financial and emotional toll that divorce can take on professional athletes.
Dawson’s financial losses were significant, as he was required to part with substantial assets, including his family home and savings accumulated over years of hard work.
The legal fees further compounded his financial struggles, leaving him to reassess his future plans. For a player who had carefully planned his post-rugby career, this was a major setback.
On an emotional level, Dawson’s divorce affected his relationships with teammates and friends.
Once a vocal leader on and off the pitch, he retreated into a shell, focusing on rebuilding his life away from the limelight.
Through resilience and determination, Dawson has since regained his footing, becoming a respected commentator and advocate for mental health awareness in sports.
5. Ben Cohen
Former England rugby star Ben Cohen's personal life became a focal point when his marriage to Abby Blayney ended in divorce.
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The couple, married for 11 years with twin daughters, separated in 2014 amid allegations of infidelity.
The divorce was finalized in March 2016, with Abby stating, "If it wasn't for that woman, me and Ben would still be married." Telegraph.
The financial implications were significant. Cohen, who had earned substantial sums during his rugby career, faced a considerable settlement.
Reports indicated that the divorce left him with limited assets compared to his peak earnings.
The emotional toll was also profound, as Cohen navigated the complexities of co-parenting and public scrutiny.
Adding to the challenges, Cohen's relationship with Kristina Rihanoff, his dance partner from "Strictly Come Dancing," attracted media attention.
While the couple welcomed a child together, the circumstances surrounding their relationship added layers of complexity to Cohen's personal life.
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