Jonathan Davies

Jonathan Davies OBE is a Welsh sporting icon, widely known for his extraordinary career in both rugby union and rugby league. He gained recognition for his ability to excel in both codes of the game, a rare feat in professional rugby. Jonathan’s skill, leadership, and adaptability made him one of the most respected figures in the sport throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Today, he is a well-regarded television commentator and a dedicated charity advocate, using his platform to inspire and motivate others. His experience and insights make him a highly sought-after high-performance speaker.

Jonathan’s career began humbly in Trimsaran, Carmarthenshire, where he was introduced to rugby at school. Despite early setbacks, including rejection from Llanelli RFC, he persevered and joined Neath RFC, where he quickly established himself as a dynamic fly-half. His talent was undeniable, and in 1985 he made his debut for the Welsh national rugby union team. One of his key achievements during this period was playing a pivotal role in Wales’ 1988 Triple Crown victory. In 1989, Jonathan made the bold decision to switch to rugby league, signing with Widnes for a record-breaking transfer fee, an important turning point in his career.

In rugby league, Jonathan’s success continued to grow. Among his most notable achievements was winning the prestigious RFL’s Man of Steel Award in 1994 for his outstanding performances. He also delivered a memorable display in Great Britain’s historic victory over Australia at Wembley in 1994, where his leadership and skill were on full display. After playing for top teams in both England and Australia, Jonathan returned to rugby union in the mid-1990s, joining Cardiff RFC and continuing to prove his versatility across both rugby codes. Since retiring from professional rugby, Jonathan has become a familiar face in television, offering expert commentary for the BBC in both Welsh and English. His personal life has also shaped his post-rugby career, especially his dedication to charity work following the loss of his wife to cancer. His charitable efforts, particularly with the Velindre Cancer Centre, led to his recognition with an OBE in 2015 for his services to cancer patients.

Jonathan’s unique blend of sporting excellence, media expertise, and charitable work makes him an exceptional high-performance speaker. His stories of overcoming adversity, teamwork, and leadership captivate audiences and provide invaluable insights into achieving success. Whether speaking at corporate events, sports conferences, or charitable functions, Jonathan’s ability to inspire and motivate makes him an ideal speaker for any occasion.