‘Ready for a full season’ – Sam Tomkins explains retirement U-turn

With the news that Sam Tomkins will play on for the 2025 season, the Catalans playmaker has explained the reasons behind his decision.

The former England captain called time on his playing career after Catalans were defeated by Wigan Warriors in the 2023 Grand Final but he made a surprise U-turn in July when he announced his return to the playing field.

That decision came nine months after the Grand Final defeat with the time away allowing his knee to recover to the point where Sam Tomkins even claimed that it was “a lot better than it was for the last 12 months”.

Despite then going down with an injury sustained against Huddersfield Giants, Tomkins would again return to see the season out but after Catalans missed the play-offs, there were lots of unanswered questions about his playing future.

Working as a pundit for Sky Sports, Sam Tomkins claimed he was “50/50” about a return but on Friday reports from France saw club president Bernard Guasch claim that the Englishman would play on.

That was later confirmed by the club and both Sam Tomkins and Steve McNamara have spoken on the decision.

Why is Sam Tomkins playing again in 2025?

As part of Catalans Dragons’ statement confirming that Sam Tomkins would play on, both the player and coach passed comment on the decision.

Sam Tomkins said: “I’m really excited to be playing again with the Dragons in 2025. Retiring at the end of 2023 gave my body time to heal and after playing the last part of the 2024 season, I feel I’m ready to contribute for a full season now.

“The club have assembled a very strong squad for 2025 and I can’t wait to be a part of what promises to be an exciting year for the club. I’d like to thank Bernard, Steve and Neil for giving me the opportunity to continue my playing career at this special club which I have grown to love over the last 6 years.”

Head coach Steve McNamara, who has been under pressure from Bernard Guasch at times this year, said of Tomkins: “After conversations with Sam I am fully convinced he is mentally and physically ready to be a hugely influential player for us in 2025.

“He will undertake a vigorous pre season which I am certain will see him return to his very best form. He is a huge asset to our team with his ability and leadership.”