Jonny Wilkinson has revealed that he struggled to cope with how his life changed after England's World Cup win in 2003.
The former England fly half was the subject of increased media exposure following his performances during the tournament and he claims that the attention made him feel fragile.
"Life stopped being simple. I have a very unhealthy fear of being celebrated. It doesn't feel right. If I had my time again after the World Cup I would face up to it more," Wilkinson told the Daily Mail.
"Maybe I should have gone out there and got used to the fact my life had changed, but at the same time showing people that I hadn't. But I didn't.
"Instead, I hid from it and that kept the problems going. It made me feel fragile."
Wilkinson scored 1,179 points in 91 appearances for England.
Written by
Callum Mulvihill
Callum Mulvihill
