Stuart Hogg's return to rugby is confirmed, he's signed a long-term contract

The former Scotland captain comes out of retirement, signing an initial two-year deal with an option for an additional year.

Hogg dramatically announced his retirement ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France at the age of 31, citing a worn-out body as his reason for stepping away from the game.

Reports reveal that Hogg also engaged in discussions with clubs in England and Japan but ultimately opted for Montpellier.

A return to the Scotland squad seems likely if he can recapture his best form, as he updated his Instagram profile picture to one of himself playing for the men in blue, along with 🏴 #1025 in his bio.

Back in December, the former Scotland international and Lions rugby star said recent developments had "crossed a line" after it emerged he had separated from his wife and started a relationship with "world's sexiest jockey" Leonna Mayor in November.

Hogg and Mayor went public with their relationship just days after Hogg's wife Gill gave birth to their fourth child.

In May, Hogg appeared in court facing charges of stalking and abuse of his ex-wife. He is accused of "engaging in a course of behavior which was abusive" as well as a stalking charge.

The 31-year-old also faces a charge of failing to comply with an undertaking. He pleaded not guilty to all three charges when he appeared in front of a judge at Jedburgh Sheriff Court.

Also in May, Hogg had written:

“It’s been tough. I was lost, needed help, direction, time away from the spotlight to be able to take a deep breath and think. I’ve been so concerned about what people thought of me, how I was coming across, the impact I would have on them and how I would survive the day.

"I lived every moment in my head and it wasn’t healthy. Spending time at a rehabilitation centre allowed me to reset, learn about myself, and talk about how I felt without being judged. It’s not been easy but it was the right thing to do. Taking accountability was the first step in the right direction.

"I accept I have made mistakes and understand why I acted as I did. Personal, private issues being played out in the public eye and online abuse are things that have impacted me significantly. I’ve not been able to deal with it. Online abuse IS NOT OK. Having some time away has allowed me to see the world differently, be grateful for the things I have, and most importantly, be excited about what is in front of me in the short, medium, and long term. THANK YOU to everyone who has been in touch and offered support, friendship, and love.”

After an intensive 10-week training program, Rees-Zammit signed with the Chiefs and is now eyeing a spot on the final 53-man roster. His rise in the sporting world has been meteoric, capturing the attention of fans and media alike.

But it's not just his professional life making headlines. Rees-Zammit's personal life has also been a hot topic, featuring relationships with high-profile personalities, from a Premier League legend's daughter to a famous YouTuber and a notable model/DJ.

In December 2019, before his international debut for Wales, Rees-Zammit posted a photo of himself playing for Gloucester. Alicia Scholes, daughter of football legend Paul Scholes, humorously suggested an England debut was imminent, despite Rees-Zammit’s Welsh roots. He firmly replied, "Wales*".

In a BBC interview, Rees-Zammit spoke about his past relationship with Alicia, a professional netball player for London Pulse. He revealed the light-hearted attempts by her father to sway him towards England, which he steadfastly resisted.

Alicia and her father Paul found themselves in the spotlight in 2021 due to a viral video that led to playful banter among rival supporters.

Following his NFL trial day, Rees-Zammit ended his relationship with influencer Saffron Barker. The couple had gone public after the Rugby World Cup, but their relationship faced challenges with his move to the US.

Saffron addressed the breakup on social media, expressing gratitude for the support from her fans and hinting at a positive future.

She wrote to her fans: "Hi everyone. I have so much exciting news to update you on, and I promise to keep you all posted on that."

"For now though I wanted to address some of the questions re my relationship. Whilst I won't be going into any detail, I am no longer in a relationship. I am fully focused on my well-being, wonderful family, & career," she further commented. Saffron continued in the recent post:

"I want to thank all of the incredible people who have sent me messages of love & strength over the past few weeks. I have read every single one & I can't tell you how much it has meant to me."

Saffron - who has more than two million subscribers on her YouTube channel - concluded by writing: "I know good things come to good people so I hold onto the hope that 2024 is going to be a positive year for me. Lots of love."

Recently single, Rees-Zammit has been spotted with Sports Illustrated model and TikTok sensation Xandra Pohl. The pair were seen enjoying a day out at Worlds of Fun amusement park in Kansas City, sparking rumors of a new romance.

Xandra, a successful DJ who has played at high-profile venues including Ushuaia Ibiza, is set to perform at Lollapalooza in Chicago this summer.

Alongside his new relationship, Rees-Zammit has also been embracing the Kansas City lifestyle, attending Travis Kelce's 'Kelce Jam' festival and sporting a new ear piercing.

As Louis Rees-Zammit continues to make waves both on and off the field, his journey in the NFL is one to watch closely.

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