The nation’s fourth-top try scorer crossed the paint 20 times in his 55 appearances in a six-year spell, which has taken in two Rugby World Cups (2015 and 2019) and the drawn 2017 Lions tour to New Zealand.

A keen eye for an intercept and world-class aerial prowess were the hallmarks of Seymour’s innings as part of a dependable back-three, with Sean Maitland and Stuart Hogg, that started more than 20 Tests as a trio.

With so many highlights in the navy-blue jersey it’s understandable that this was not a decision taken lightly.

Tommy Seymour said: “Playing for Scotland has been the greatest honour. The pride from wearing the thistle on my chest is one of the most powerful feelings I’ve experienced.

“It was in every way a dream come true and an amazing journey to share with friends, family and the Scotland supporters.

“I have been fortunate enough to play with some of the greatest players this country has ever produced and even more fortunate that in some I have found friends for life.”
Tommy Seymour

“To my loving wife Katy, who held the fort through my many days and months away from home, thank you for being my rock through all the ups and downs that come with playing international sport.”

Nashville born and an Irish youth cap on account of moving to Belfast when he was young, Seymour was eligible to play for Scotland through his Glasgow-born mother, Sue.

He joined Glasgow Warriors in 2011 made his Scotland debut two years later against South Africa in Nelspruit and scored his first try as part of a brace against Japan in the national team’s 42-17 Autumn Test win later that year.

Seymour holds the distinction of having scored a try in four consecutive RWC tournament matches in 2015, with a try in the preceding Summer Test against France making for a five-game streak.

Two years later he was named in the British & Irons Lions squad to tour New Zealand, continuing his prolific approach in the famous red jersey, finishing as the team’s top try-scorer.

Seymour also has a hat-trick to his credit, which he registered in the memorable 54-17 win over Fiji at BT Murrayfield last year – one of six try scorers that day.

Scotland Head Coach Gregor Townsend said: “Tommy can reflect on an excellent international career. He has one of the best try-scoring rates for Scotland. To earn 55 caps in a six-year period is testament to not only his all-round rugby ability but also his consistency in the blue jersey.

“His game was very well suited to the demands of Test rugby, as he had a high work-rate, world-class aerial skills and a very good awareness of when to get on to ball.

“When he got the opportunity to play regularly – first at Glasgow and then with Scotland – he went from strength to strength, adding elements to his game each season.

“He’s been fantastic to work with and always gave everything for Scotland. We wish him well for the rest of his playing career with Glasgow.”