Ex-Ireland rugby star reveals cancer diagnosis forced retirement ‘year or two earlier than I would have planned’

Former Ireland international Shannon Ikahihifo has revealed that a breast cancer diagnosis forced her into retirement a year or two earlier than planned. The 31-year-old flanker discovered she had cancer in August 2025 during preparations for the Rugby World Cup. Speaking on RTE 2FM Mornings with Doireann Garrihy, she explained that she underwent chemotherapy, a lumpectomy, and radiotherapy before being declared cancer-free.

Following her treatments, Ikahihifo was advised by oncologists that radiotherapy had significantly reduced her bone density, creating a high risk of breaking ribs if she returned to contact sport. Recognizing the danger, she chose to hang up her boots to protect her health, while remaining optimistic about staying active through other opportunities outside professional rugby.