Stuart Hogg reveals spell in rehab as Scottish rugby hero opens up on ‘darkest of times’ in emotional statement

Scotland rugby legend Stuart Hogg has revealed that he has been spending time in a rehabilitation centre to try and get his life back on track.

The former fly-half, who won 100 caps for Scotland between 2012 and 2023 before announcing his shock retirement from rugby in March last year, was arrested last month following an incident in his hometown of Hawick. The father-of-four was awarded an MBE in the 2024 New Year Honours for services to rugby union and is also his country's all time leading try scorer. In his club career, Hogg helped Glasgow Warriors win the United Rugby Championships in 2015 and Exeter Chiefs to a double in the Gallagher Premiership and the European Champions Cup five years later.

And in an emotional address on social media, the 31-year-old has explained how a spell in rehab is helping him overcome his demons. The former rugby star also thanked fans for their support during his struggle. Hogg's message on X (formerly known as Twitter) read: "I was lost, needed help, direction, time away from the spotlight to be able to take a deep breath and think.

"I’ve been so concerned about what people thought of me, how I was coming across, the impact I would have on them and how I would survive the day. I lived every moment in my head and it wasn’t healthy.

"Spending time at a rehabilitation centre, allowed me to reset, learn about myself and talk about how I felt, without being judged. It’s not been easy but it was the right thing to do. Taking accountability was the first step in the right direction. I accept I have made mistakes and understand why I acted as I did.

"Personal, private issues being played out in the public eye and online abuse are things that have impacted me significantly. I’ve not been able to deal with it. Online abuse IS NOT OK.

"Having some time away has allowed me to see the world differently, be grateful for the things I have and most importantly, be excited about what is in front of me in the short, medium and long term.

"THANK YOU to everyone who has been in touch and offered support, friendship and love. You have helped me through the darkest of times and I will look forward to embracing what is next with you all."