Martin Johnson

Martin Johnson is a former English professional rugby union player, born on March 9, 1970, in Solihull, England. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest locks of all time. Johnson began his professional career with Leicester Tigers in 1989, where he won multiple titles, including five English Championships and two European Cups.

Johnson is known for his leadership skills, physical presence, and exceptional lineout ability. He has won numerous individual awards, including World Rugby Player of the Year, and holds multiple records, such as being the only player to captain the British and Irish Lions on two separate tours.

Off the field, Johnson is also recognized for his charity work and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Leicester Tigers

• Youth and Early Career: Johnson was born and raised in Solihull and joined Leicester Tigers' youth academy. He made his first-team debut for the Tigers in 1989.

Early Success:

• Johnson established himself as a key player for Leicester Tigers, winning five English Championships and two European Cups. He was also named the club's Player of the Year twice.

International Career

• England Debut: In 1993, Johnson made his debut for England. Over his international career, he won 84 caps and captained England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

British and Irish Lions

• Leadership Role: Johnson was selected for three British and Irish Lions tours, captaining the team in 1997 and 2001. He is the only player to have captained the Lions on two separate tours.

England National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for England in 1993.

Achievements:

• Rugby World Cup: Winner in 2003.
• Six Nations Championships: Winner in 2000, 2001 and 2003, including Grand Slams in 2002 and 2003.

• Position: Primarily a lock.
• Skills: Known for his leadership, physicality, work rate and exceptional lineout ability. Johnson is celebrated for his toughness, tactical acumen and ability to inspire his teammates.

• Family: Johnson is married to Kay Johnson. They have two children together.
• Charity: Johnson is involved in various charitable activities and has raised significant funds for several charities, including children's hospitals and cancer research.

• Martin Johnson is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his leadership, determination, and longevity in professional rugby. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the pitch, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

World Rugby Player of the Year:

• Winner in 2001

Rugby World Cup:

• Winner in 2003

Six Nations Championships:

• Winner in 2000, 2001 and 2003, including Grand Slams in 2002 and 2003

European Cups:

• Winner in 2001 and 2002 with Leicester Tigers

Books

• Johnson, M. (2003) Winning!. London: Headline Publishing Group.
• Richards, D. (2009) The Autobiography. London: Hodder & Stoughton.

Websites

• World Rugby: Information about Martin Johnson’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.world.rugby
• English Rugby: Details about Johnson’s career at Leicester Tigers and England. Available at: https://www.englandrugby.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: Martin Johnson: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union
• The Guardian: Martin Johnson’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/martinjohnson

Interviews and Documentaries

• Living with Lions (1997): This documentary provides a detailed look at the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa, featuring interviews with Johnson and his teammates.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Martin Johnson, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.co.uk