Jonathan Jeremiah Sexton, born on July 11, 1985, is an Irish professional rugby union player known for his position as a fly-half. He currently plays for the United Rugby Championship club Leinster and is the captain of the Ireland national team. Sexton has had an illustrious career, representing both Leinster and Ireland at the highest level of the sport.
One of the most accomplished fly-halves in the game, Sexton has been praised by players and coaches alike, often being referred to as the world's best in his position and Ireland's best player of all time. He has achieved remarkable success in international rugby, having represented the British & Irish Lions on their 2013 and 2017 tours. Additionally, he has scored over 1,000 points in his international career, making him one of the highest points-scorers in rugby union history.
In 2018, Sexton was honored with the World Rugby Player of the Year award, solidifying his status as one of the game's greats. He had previously been nominated for the award in 2014 and 2022. Sexton became the second Irish player, after Keith Wood in 2001, to win this prestigious accolade.
Sexton's leadership qualities are evident as he became the 106th player to captain the Ireland national team in a Rugby World Cup match in 2019. He was later named the official captain for the 2020 Six Nations Championship, a role he retained in the 2023 tournament.
Born in Rathgar, Dublin, Sexton has family ties to North Kerry and West Clare. His uncle, William Sexton, is a former Garryowen, Munster, and Ireland rugby player. He played mini rugby with Bective Rangers in Donnybrook, Dublin, where his father is a long-standing member. Sexton attended St. Mary's College in Dublin and made a significant impact, including scoring a drop goal in the school's 2002 Leinster Senior Schools Cup final victory. His performances at St. Mary's led to his selection for Leinster, making his debut against the Border Reivers in 2006.
In addition to his rugby career, Sexton holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from UCD, University College Dublin, which he obtained in 2012.
At Leinster, Sexton played a crucial role in their success, including helping the team win the Celtic League in the 2007-08 season. He played a vital part in Leinster's victory in the 2009 Heineken Cup final, scoring a memorable drop goal and kicking the winning penalty. Sexton's skills were evident throughout his time at Leinster, and his performances played a significant role in the team's successes.
Sexton's international career with Ireland began in 2009 when he earned his first cap against Fiji, impressively scoring 16 points and winning the man of the match award. He went on to become a regular feature in the Ireland squad, showcasing his talents and contributing to notable victories, such as the historic 15-10 win against South Africa, where he played with a broken hand.
Sexton's return to Leinster in 2015 after a brief stint with Racing 92 in Paris further solidified his standing as a key figure in Irish rugby. He has continued to make significant contributions both domestically and in European competitions, helping Leinster secure multiple titles, including the Pro-14 and the European Cup.
Jonathan Sexton's skill, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure have made him one of the most respected and accomplished rugby players of his generation. His achievements and impact on the game have rightfully earned him a place among the legends of Irish and international rugby..
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Sexton has been named in the squad for Ireland as Captain.
KG(29/06/2023)
Career
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Ireland A Fly Half |
2022 - present |
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Racing 92 Fly Half |
2013 - 2015 |
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British & Irish Lions Fly Half |
2013 - 2021 |
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St. Mary's Fly Half |
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St Marys College (Dublin) Fly Half |
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Leinster Rugby Fly Half |
2006 - 2023 |
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Ireland Fly Half |
2009 - 2024 |
