Welsh rugby legend Ryan Jones thanks hospital staff after surgery to fix decade‑old injury
The former Wales captain, who lifted three Grand Slams and won 75 caps before retiring in 2015, had been living with the legacy of a broken ankle suffered late in his playing career. A metal plate inserted at the time had become increasingly debilitating, threatening his post‑rugby love of triathlons and long‑distance adventures.
Jones underwent surgery at Neath Port Talbot Hospital before Christmas and is now recovering well with follow‑up physiotherapy.
“They’ve given me hope”
Ryan Jones said:
I’m 10 years post‑playing now — if I was an old car there would be a fair few miles on the clock. One of my old injuries had crept up on me and got progressively worse, so I came in to see Mr Paul Williams, who has taken exceptional care of me with his amazing team.
Hopefully this will mean I can return to doing all the things that I love doing. My running, my cycling, and being active out and about.
Ryan Jones with physiotherapists Gavin Evans and Sharon Maggs at Neath Port Talbot Hospital. (Image: Swansea Bay UHB) Former Wales captain Ryan Jones at Neath Port Talbot Hospital, where he underwent surgery before Christmas. (Image: Swansea Bay UHB)
Jones, who spent a decade with the Ospreys and also represented the British and Irish Lions, said he turned to triathlons and endurance events after hanging up his boots — even if it meant being overtaken by former teammate Shane Williams.
He joked that Williams “tapped him on the backside” while passing him during the Ironman Wales marathon stage, adding: “He’s got a distinct advantage — he’s half the size.”
Strong family connection to the hospital
Jones said Neath Port Talbot Hospital holds a special place in his heart.
He said:
I have an affinity for this hospital as they looked after my nan fantastically when she was here, and my mum is currently having some treatment here.
Now they are doing a superb job looking after me. The care, the compassion, the professionalism — nothing is too much. It’s given me hope.
Six weeks after surgery, Jones says he now believes he can return to the outdoor challenges he loves.
“A model patient”
Physiotherapist Gavin Evans said Jones had been a pleasure to work with.
Gavin Evans said:
Ryan has been very kind and very grateful for the input he’s had so far.
With his background he’s clued up on orthopaedics and rehab, but he’s still taking all the advice on board and doing everything he can to get back to where he wants to be.
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