Nicolas Sanchez, the historic opener of the Pumas, announced his retirement this Thursday at the age of 36. Top scorer in Argentine history with 902 points in 104 caps, he leaves the field after a career marked by records, two World Cup semi-finals and notable appearances in the Top 14.
At 36, Nicolas Sanchez announced his retirement via an Instagram post this Thursday. With 104 selections under the Pumas jersey, the Argentinian opener ends a rich careermarked by records. Best scorer in Argentine history.
Nicknamed “El Cachorro”, Sanchez scored 902 points for the selection (15 tries, 130 conversions, 173 penalties, 12 drops). A record that places him ahead of legends like Felipe Contepomi (651 points) or Hugo Porta (590 points). Trained in Tucumán, he rose through the ranks of Argentine Rugby before joining the Pumas. He wore the national jersey for the first time in 2010. He is the 737th Puma in history.
Sanchez marked two generations. In 2015, he scored 23 points against Ireland in the quarter-final of the World Cup (43-20). In 2020, he became the national hero by scoring 25 points in Argentina's first victory against New Zealand (25-15).
Chapters of his career in France
His club career is just as remarkable. After winning the Vodacom Cup in 2011 with the Pampas XV, he discovered the Top 14. He played in Bordeaux-Bègles (2013-2014), Toulon (2014-2015), then returned to Argentina with the Jaguares until 2018. Back in France, he joined Stade Français, then Brive, before flying to Japan and Tokyo Sungoliath in 2023.
His last matches with Argentina date back to the 2023 World Cup. He was the author of a decisive try during the quarter-final against Wales, on a cruel interception, after having read the opposing combination well.
Nico's last try with the Los Pumas shirt. ud83eudd7a
-ud83cudfc9 29-17 victory against Wales in Marseille, for the quarterfinals of the 2023 World Cup in France.
ud83dudc49 Tell us how you experienced this day!#SomosLosPumas pic.twitter.com/FUKBpHUMUl
— Los Pumas (@lospumas) https://twitter.com/lospumas/status/1882418115847524496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
The rest of the story is less prestigious, with a heavy defeat in the semi-final against the galvanized All Blacks (6-44). The Pumas finished at the foot of the podium, but Sanchez remains one of the symbols of this golden generation. With the recent retirements of Agustin Creevy and Juan Imhoff, a page is turning for Argentine rugby. In his message, Sanchez expressed his gratitude: “Rugby has given me more than I could have imagined. It has taught me values and allowed me to meet extraordinary people.”
France
