Phil Vickery, Rugby World Cup Winner, Unveils Dramatic Bodybuilding Transformation
The former England prop, now 50, has competed in a bodybuilding event, citing the discipline and camaraderie as beneficial for his mental health.
Former England Rugby World Cup-winning prop Phil Vickery, 50, has revealed a significant physical transformation as he has taken up bodybuilding. Vickery, a key member of England's 2003 World Cup-winning squad, recently competed in a bodybuilding event organized by the Physical Culture Association in Hull.
After retiring from rugby in 2010 due to injury, Vickery has engaged in various pursuits, including coaching, media work, player welfare advocacy, and now competitive bodybuilding. He shared photos of his physique on social media, detailing the positive impact the discipline and challenge of the sport have had on his mental well-being.
"First and foremost the gym and lifting weights has helped me physically but mentally more than anything," Vickery stated on Instagram. "I love the discipline, the challenge, the atmosphere, the camaraderie and the simple fact it’s f***ing hard work and you can’t fake your way onto stage and you can’t hide behind anyone or anything. Your physique is the reflection of your work. It’s not about anyone else for me it’s just you being the best version of you and being better than last time."
Vickery expressed gratitude to his coach, Dave Campbell, whom he described as a friend and mentor. Campbell commended Vickery's journey, noting the overcoming of injuries and setbacks.
His former England teammate Matt Dawson reacted to the transformation, calling Vickery a "colossus." England's official account also offered support with a playful "Fancy a game?"
Vickery's recent achievement comes after he revealed in August that he has been diagnosed with "probable" chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease linked to repeated head impacts. He spoke about the challenges, stating, "The sport’s fing amazing. Rugby’s an amazing sport. You know, the sad reality is I sit here today: would I do it all again? Oh my God, I would. I’m fing mental, but I would because it’s amazing. I also sit here knowing there are lots of people out there, I believe, who are suffering because of the sport. And it’s not about blaming the sport and about getting all nasty and horrible. Let’s just f***ing help people. There are people suffering, so let’s help them."
Vickery was part of the England squad that won the Rugby World Cup in 2003, playing in all seven matches of the tournament. He was forced to retire from professional rugby in 2010 due to injury.
