Former Scotland rugby captain Stuart Hogg, capped 100 times for his country, has admitted to a domestic abuse charge concerning his estranged wife, Gillian.
Appearing at Selkirk Sheriff Court, Hogg confessed to abusive behavior that included shouting, swearing, and sending over 200 messages in just a few hours—messages that the court described as “alarming and distressing.”
Legal Limbo – Sentencing Deferred
Sheriff Peter Paterson deferred Hogg’s sentencing until December 5, pending further background reports. The court heard that Hogg, now with Montpellier in France, had been engaging in abusive behavior over the past five years, including monitoring Gillian’s movements with tracking apps even after their split in 2023.
More Than a Moment
The behavior reportedly spanned his stints with Hawick, Glasgow Warriors, and Exeter Chiefs, where the tension boiled over. Living under constant scrutiny, Gillian suffered a panic attack at one point, prompting her to seek support from domestic abuse services.
From Court to Cradle: Hogg’s Baby News with ‘World’s Sexiest Jockey’
Amid the legal turmoil, there’s a silver lining for Hogg, as his girlfriend, TV presenter Leonna Mayor, recently revealed that she’s pregnant with their child.
Mayor, who’s made waves in both the racing world and as a presenter for ITV and Sky Sports, took to Instagram in September to share the exciting news. Posting a baby scan photo alongside a cheeky caption, Mayor announced, “I’m not a fan of surprises but this one is defo growing on me (literally),” confirming they are expecting a boy.
Racing Career to Rugby Romance
Mayor’s romance with the former Scotland captain first hit the spotlight in November 2023, when she posted a loved-up snap of the two with the caption, “the least Mondayest Monday ever,” alongside the song ‘Better Together.’
Now, as the couple prepares for the arrival of their baby boy, Hogg’s legal challenges continue to cloud what should be a joyous time for the pair. The question remains: how will the upcoming trial impact the former rugby star’s new chapter as a father once again?
Five richest rugby couples:
Johnny and Laura Sexton – £6m
Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby’s wealthiest couples. Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013. From Dublin’s Saint Mary’s College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny’s rugby career.
Siya and Rachel Kolisi – £10m
With an empire worth an estimated £10 million, Siya and Rachel Kolisi were not just a power couple but partners in philanthropy. Known for their foundation and work in communities, the couple planned to keep collaborating on their projects, even as they transition to a new chapter. Siya recently rejoined the Sharks in South Africa after a stint with French side Racing, but despite their split, Rachel remains the “rock” Siya has always called her.
Though the Kolisis’ marriage may be over, their legacy as one of South Africa’s most-loved couples will continue to inspire fans across the globe.
Mike and Zara Tindall – £20m
Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.
Nicknamed “The Fridge” due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he’s made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge.
Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall’s wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.
