Former Scotland captain Stuart Hogg has revealed that spending time at a rehabilitation center helped him “reset” after he was charged by police in connection with an incident on the Scottish borders.
Hogg, Scotland’s all-time leading try scorer, retired in 2023 before the start of the Rugby World Cup, announcing his desire to embark on a new career following his time in the sport during from which he served three tours with the British and Irish. The Lions.
On February 25, the 31-year-old – who enjoyed success with Glasgow Warriors and Exeter Chiefs – was arrested at a property in his home town of Hawick. A Police Scotland spokesperson confirmed Hogg was charged and released on bail to appear at Jedburgh Sheriff Court at a later date, with a report submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
On Sunday, Hogg posted a Personal message on social media detailing his time at the rehabilitation center, where he had wanted to “learn more about myself and talk about how I felt, without being judged.” Hogg said: “I was lost, I needed help, direction, time away from the spotlight so I could take a deep breath and think. I was so concerned about what people thought of me, what impression I made, what impact I would have on them, and how I would survive this day. I was living every moment in my head and it wasn’t healthy.
-“Spending time in a rehabilitation center allowed me to recharge my batteries, learn more about myself and talk about how I was feeling, without being judged. It wasn’t easy, but it was the right thing to do. Taking responsibility was the first step in the right direction. I accept that I made mistakes and I understand why I acted the way I did.
Hogg added: “Personal and private issues coming out into the public eye and online abuse are things that have affected me significantly. I couldn’t cope with it. Online abuse is not acceptable.
“Having time away has allowed me to see the world differently, to be grateful for the things I have and, most importantly, to be excited about what lies ahead in the short, medium and long term.
“Thank you to everyone who has been in touch and offered support, friendship and love. You helped me through the darkest times and I can’t wait to embrace what’s next with you all.
