Perry Baker, a two-time World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year, has announced his retirement after a decade playing for the USA, which included three Olympic appearances. The 33-year-old athlete shared his decision on social media on October 14, indicating that the 2023/24 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series season would be his last.
Throughout his career, Baker scored an impressive 293 tries in the sevens series, earning respect from fans and athletes worldwide. Notable figures from various sports, including Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, expressed their admiration for Baker’s contributions to the game in the comment sections of his retirement announcement.
Although he is retiring from playing, Baker will remain involved in rugby as an assistant coach for the USA men’s sevens team through the end of the year. In his heartfelt farewell statement, Baker reflected on his journey, stating, “After an incredible 10 years representing the USA Men’s 7s program, the time has come for me to step away from the game that has shaped so much of my life.”
He emphasized the honor of wearing the USA jersey and highlighted the friendships and life lessons earned through rugby. “To the fans, rugby isn’t just a sport, it’s a family… thank you for teaching me resilience, teamwork, and leadership that will live with me forever,” he added.
Baker, who began playing rugby as a teenager in Florida, was recognized later in life when he joined the national sevens team at age 28 after training with the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles. He made his debut during the 2014 season and received a nomination for Rookie of the Year under coach Mike Friday.
Over his ten-year career, Baker formed a prolific partnership with Carlin Isles and achieved significant accolades, including being named Men’s World Sevens Player of the Year in 2017 and 2018. He also participated in every Olympic Rugby Sevens event since its introduction, competing in Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021), and will also be present at Paris 2024.