Enlarge imageBy Nicolas Fichot
TOULOUSE, France (Reuters) - France's most capped player Fabien Pelous will quit professional rugby at the end of the season, the lock said Thursday.
"After careful thought, I felt it was time for me to go," the 35-year-old Stade Toulousain forward told a news conference.
"I know hard times are coming and that the desire of playing will not disappear right away. But it is wise to know when it is time to go. It is the right time."
Pelous started his professional career at Dax in 1995, joining Toulouse in 1997. He earned a record 118 caps for France between 1995 and 2007, ending his international career after the World Cup. He captained his country 42 times.
Pelous won four Five or Six Nations grand slams in 1997, 1998, 2002 and 2004 and the Heineken Cup with Toulouse in 2003 and 2005.
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He never won the World Cup, although he made it to the final in 1999, losing to Australia after a memorable 43-31 semi-final victory against New Zealand.
He reached the semi-finals twice in 2003 and 2007, both times losing out to England.
Pelous said he would open a cafe in the Southwestern town of Saverdun, where he started his amateur career.
"This is the Mr Rugby of the past 15 years who is leaving the pitch. I take the years I spent alongside Fabien as a chance, a rare privilege," said Toulouse coach Guy Noves.
"He never cheated. We will do everything we can so that he can leave with his head up high," he added.
Toulouse are currently second in the French league, level on points with Top 14 leaders Perpignan.
(Writing by Julien Pretot; Editing by Nick Mulvenney; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)
