Former Wales and British and Irish Lions captain Alun Wyn Jones said he was diagnosed with a heart condition in the final months of his nearly 20-year career.
The 38-year-old, the most capped player in rugby after making 158 appearances for Wales and 12 for the Lions, joined French club Toulon in July on a short-term contract, which ended in November.
He had announced his retirement from international rugby in May.
Speaking to the Telegraph, Jones says it was discovered when he underwent a full medical check, which included an ECG test when he joined Toulon in July.
He says the sport has come to the point where players should be screened more often, especially at a time when the demands in the game are growing.
Jones says he took medical advice before deciding to join and play for the French side.
He adds it might seem a selfish decision given that he has three young daughters, but he needed to take the opportunity.
Jones says it was only going to be for four months, and it gave him an opportunity to experience and get perspective on his career and life.
Source: Reuters
