Legendary St.Helens winger Tommy Makinson has announced that the 2026 season will be his final season as a professional rugby league player.
The 34-year-old, a proud product of the Saints Academy, spent an incredible 14 years with the Saints First Team before moving onto the Catalans Dragons at the end of 2024.
As a Saint, Makinson made his senior debut in 2011 and became one of Super League’s best-ever wingers, boasting an astonishing points record. For the Red V, Tommy played in 336 matches, scoring 207 tries, kicked 280 goals and a drop goal for a total of 1,389 points.
Makinson earned with the Saints: a World Club Challenge and Challenge Cup trophy, four League Leaders’ Shields and five Super League titles. He was also selected in the Super League Dream Team three times, and won the Golden Boot in 2018 for his performances at the international level with England.
With the Dragons, Makinson has made almost 40 appearances, crossing over for 20 tries so far in his two seasons in France.
In a post on his Instagram page, Makinson said: “As the 2026 season moves towards its final stages, I feel now is the right time to announce that this will be my final season as a professional Rugby League player.
“Rugby League had been incredibly kind to me, and when I look back on the journey I’ve been on, I feel nothing but pride and gratitude. I’ve been very fortunate to live out a dream I had as a id and represent some of the biggest clubs in both England and France and also the pinnacle which is representing my country.
“There have been so many highs, some difficult moments, incredible memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. I wouldn’t have been able to experiences any of it without the unbelievable support I’ve had from my family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, supporters and everyone who has played a part in my career. To each and every one of you, thank you.
“I’ve still got a few games left, and I want to enjoy every second of them. I’ll be taking it all in, appreciating the moments and giving everything I have to finish this chapter in my career in the best possible way.
“It’s hard to put into words what Rugby League has given me, but I know how lucky I am to have lived this life and played the game I love for as long as I have.”
The Club would like to wish Tommy the very best in his next chapter when it comes, and we wish him and his family well.
Take a look at Tommy’s announcement below.
View this post on Instagram
