USA 7s speedster Perry Baker has announced his retirement from rugby after 10 years representing the Eagles in the sevens program.
In a heartfelt post on his social media, Baker reflected on his rugby journey, expressing gratitude for the experiences and relationships the sport has given him.
Perry Baker announcement
“After an incredible 10 years representing the USA Men’s 7s program, the time has come for me to step away from the game that has shaped so much of my life. It’s been an honour and a privilege to wear the jersey and represent my country on the world stage. From the moment I joined the team, I could never have imagined the experiences, the highs and lows, and the lifelong friendships rugby would give me,” Baker shared.
Baker revealed that meeting his wife during his first year in the game was a life-changing moment, and he credited her unwavering support throughout his career.
“Year one of my journey was especially life-changing as I met my amazing wife, and together we built our family. To my wife and family, I couldn’t have done this without your endless support and love. You’ve been my anchor, and I’m grateful for the sacrifices you made so I could pursue my dream,” he said.
He extended his gratitude to his teammates, coaches, and fans, emphasizing the deep sense of belonging rugby has given him.
“To my teammates, coaches, staff, and everyone in USA Rugby, thank you for believing in me, pushing me, and making every moment memorable. To the fans, rugby isn’t just a sport—it’s a family, and you guys made me feel that everywhere I went. And to rugby itself, thank you for teaching me resilience, teamwork, and leadership that will live with me forever.”
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As he prepares for life beyond rugby, Baker expressed excitement about the future and a desire to give back to the sport that shaped him.
“As I step into the next chapter, I carry with me all the lessons, memories, and connections this game has given me. I’m excited for what’s to come and how I can continue giving back to this amazing sport. Thank you for being part of my journey,” he concluded.
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Baker signed a full-time contract with the U.S. Eagles in July 2014 to join the residency program at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in San Diego. He made his debut at the 2014 Gold Coast Sevens, where he scored his first try and hat-trick against Portugal.
Baker became pivotal in the Eagles’ rise on the world stage. In 2015, he scored two tries to secure the USA’s first-ever win over New Zealand at the Dubai Sevens. During the 2015-16 World Series, Baker scored 48 tries, the highest by any USA player that season, earning a spot on the World Rugby Dream Team.
He represented the USA at the 2016 Rio Olympics, scoring a try against Fiji, although the team did not advance past the pool stage. Baker’s influence continued to grow during the 2016-17 season, where he led the series with 57 tries and was named World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year in 2017.
At the 2018 USA Sevens, Baker was instrumental in the Eagles’ first home tournament victory, scoring crucial tries in wins against England, Fiji, and Argentina. Despite injuries limiting him in later seasons, Baker’s impact remained undeniable.
In 2020, Baker became the second USA player, after Carlin Isles, to reach 200 career tries during the World Rugby Sevens Series in Los Angeles.
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Baker was the Eagles’ leading scorer, contributing four tries in a win over Uruguay that secured the team’s place in the quarterfinals for the first time. He finished the tournament with six tries and 30 points, tying with Fiji’s Iowane Teba for the top spot.
