Former England winger Jonny May will join French second division side Soyaux Angouleme on a two-year deal, starting next season.
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May left Gloucester at the end of this season after making 191 appearances and scoring 73 tries across two spells with the Cherry and Whites.
England Career Highlights
Having retired from international duty following the 2023 World Cup in France, May is England's second-highest try-scorer of all time, with 36 tries in 78 Tests, second only to Rory Underwood.
Excitement for New Challenge
“I don't think I've ever been more excited about signing a contract than this time with SA XV," May told Angouleme's website. "I'm 110% committed to giving my best rugby to this team. More than that I really want to buy into the culture of the town and the club, make friends and memories, and make Angouleme a special place for me and my family."
Future Career Prospects
Looking ahead, May has begun exploring post-playing opportunities, including the potential of joining the fire service with the RAF.
“I am still hoping to play for the next couple of years or year, I am not quite ready to stop playing yet, but the RAF have let me come in during the off-season,” he said. “It would help me get a bit of a foot up while I am still playing.”
The top 10 fastest rugby players of all-time
10. Jonny May – England – 10.71 seconds (100m)
England's Jonny May isn't just fast; he's a force to be reckoned with. Clocking in at an impressive 10.71 seconds over 100 meters, May's lightning speed has made him a formidable presence on the pitch. With an ever-growing prowess in finishing, May's name often finds itself at the forefront of Eddie Jones' team selections.
9. Cheslin Kolbe – South Africa – 10.70 seconds (100m)
Cheslin Kolbe's speed is the stuff of legend. A product of South Africa's rugby system, Kolbe blazed through school with a staggering 10.70-second 100-meter time. Today, he's even faster, making him a nightmare for opposition defences.
8. Jonah Lomu – New Zealand – 10.70 seconds (100m)
Jonah Lomu wasn't just a rugby player; he was a phenomenon. Despite his imposing stature, Lomu possessed the speed of a sprinter, clocking in at 10.70 seconds over 100 meters. His sheer power and pace redefined the winger position, leaving a lasting legacy in the annals of rugby history.
7. Doug Howlett – New Zealand – 10.68 seconds (100m)
Doug Howlett's name is synonymous with speed. As a former All Black and Blues sensation, Howlett's blistering pace, evidenced by his 10.68-second 100-meter dash, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Whether in international or Super Rugby arenas, Howlett's speed was a weapon to be feared.
6. Jason Robinson – England – 10.68 seconds (100m)
Jason Robinson's agility and pace were simply unparalleled. With the ability to leave defenders in his dust, Robinson's electrifying runs often ended with him crossing the try line. A true dual-threat in both league and union, Robinson's 10.68-second 100-meter time solidifies his place among rugby's fastest.
5. Joe Rokocoko – New Zealand – 10.66 seconds (100m)
Joe Rokocoko's nickname, "Smokin' Joe," says it all. The Fijian-born All Black winger dazzled audiences with his speed and agility, leaving defenders grasping at thin air. Clocking in at 10.66 seconds over 100 meters, Rokocoko's pace was as formidable as it was mesmerizing.
4. Sbu Nkosi – South Africa – 10.59 seconds (100m)
Sbu Nkosi is a testament to South Africa's speed prowess. With a lightning-fast 10.59-second 100-meter time, Nkosi's acceleration and agility have made him a standout in recent Springbok history. His ability to leave defenders in his wake has solidified his status as one of rugby's fastest.
3. Takudzwa Ngwenya – USA – 10.5. seconds (100m)
The budding winger found success in the United States, showcasing his talent for the under 19 USA national team prior to catching the eye of Biarritz in 2007. Ngwenya then made his mark with 239 appearances for the Pro 14 team, amassing an impressive 430 points. Additionally, he represented the USA national rugby team in 36 matches, where he scored 65 points and notably outran Habana during the 2007 World Cup.
2. Louis Rees-Zammit – Wales – 10.4 seconds (100m)
Louis Rees-Zammit is a name on the rise in the world of rugby speedsters. With a remarkable 10.4-second 100-meter sprint captured in a BBC documentary, Rees-Zammit's rapid ascent to prominence is no surprise. His blistering pace has already placed him among the elite in the sport.
Louis Rees-Zammit of Gloucester Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Gloucester Rugby and Harlequins at Kingsholm on 17 February. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
1. Bryan Habana – South Africa – 10.4 seconds (100m)
Bryan Habana is synonymous with speed and try-scoring prowess. With a debut try that epitomized his blistering pace, Habana went on to be