Ben Youngs, the legendary rugby player, opens up about his journey and the challenges he faced both on and off the field. In a heartfelt interview, he reveals the trauma he carried while representing England, and how it affected his perception of success.
"I found it incredibly difficult to embrace my achievements," Youngs confesses. With an impressive 127 caps and four World Cup appearances, he struggled with guilt and self-doubt. His family's battles with terminal illnesses weighed heavily on his mind, making him question his own accomplishments.
"It was a constant battle," he explains. "I felt like I was neglecting my family's struggles while pursuing my own goals. It was a delicate balance between putting on a brave face for the game and checking in on my loved ones afterward."
The turning point came when Steve Borthwick, his former coach, left him out of the squad for the 2023 World Cup opener. Youngs broke down, realizing the toll it had taken on his mental health. He sought support from the England psychologist, David Priestley, and found solace in their conversation.
"It was a moment of clarity," Youngs shares. "I realized I shouldn't feel guilty for pursuing my passion. David's presence helped me reconcile my inner conflict."
In his new book, Youngs offers a candid assessment of his coaches. He highlights the perceived lack of empathy from Borthwick, Lancaster, and Gatland, while also acknowledging their strengths. He contrasts this with Eddie Jones, who he believes had a unique ability to connect with players on a personal level.
"Eddie made me feel like a champion," Youngs says. "His man-management skills were exceptional. He understood the importance of the human connection, which is often overlooked in sports."
Youngs also shares his concerns about the future of rugby, especially regarding women's rugby. He emphasizes the need for more professional teams and better support for female players. He proposes an eight-point plan to make the sport more appealing to a new generation, including reducing teams to 14 players and focusing on expansive rugby.
"Rugby has the potential to unite and inspire," Youngs adds. "It's a powerful tool for change, and we must ensure it remains accessible and inclusive."
As he reflects on his career, Youngs seems to have found peace. He expresses gratitude for the lessons learned and the connections made. His journey serves as a reminder that success is not just about achievements on the field, but also about the impact we have off it.
"I'm getting there," he says with a smile, embracing the pride that comes with being England's most-capped rugby player.
Ben Youngs' story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of human connection in sports.
