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The king has called it quits. Long-time New Zealand All Blacks captain Richie McCaw has announced his retirement from professional rugby, ending a storied career on a winning note, with his final match coming in the World Cup final victory over Australia.
With a list of records and accolades unmatched in the the modern game – or any era before – McCaw’s greatest achievement may be one of survival. To have come through 148 test matches alone, nevermind provincial and Super Rugby appearances, and retire at the age of 34 on his own terms with the Webb Ellis trophy above his head is the stuff of legend.
McCaw’s incredible endurance and consistent level of performance has led to many labeling him the greatest rugby player of all time, and his influence is felt the world over. While he never played in the United States, he traveled with the side to the test in Chicago and played a major role in the media buildup to the occasion.
McCaw played against Argentina on 10 occasions and Canada twice. He won all 12 matches, with his closest being his first trip to Buenos Aires in 2001, where the All Blacks escaped with a narrow 24-20 victory in front of 59,000 at El Monumental.
