Ex Scotland rugby star Stuart Hogg to be sentenced for abusing estranged wife

Former Scotland rugby captain Stuart Hogg is set to be sentenced following his admission of abusing his estranged wife over a period of five years. The ex-rugby star pleaded guilty to a single charge of domestic abuse involving his former partner, Gillian Hogg, during a court appearance at Selkirk Sheriff Court on November 4. He acknowledged engaging in problematic behaviour such as shouting, swearing, monitoring her movements, and sending distressing messages. Hogg, who now plays for French club Montpellier, will face sentencing at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday. The 32-year-old, who retired from professional rugby last July before his return to the sport with Montpellier, confessed to the charge of domestic abuse spanning from 2019 to 2024, with incidents occurring in locations including Hawick in the Scottish Borders.

The court heard that the couple had moved to Exeter in 2019 with their three young children, all under the age of three, but Hogg’s conduct deteriorated as he indulged in partying activities. Prosecutors mentioned instances where Hogg would criticise his wife for not partaking in his drinking sessions and exhibited aggressive behaviour towards her. The situation escalated to the point where Mrs Hogg sought advice from a domestic abuse service and decided to leave the relationship in 2023. Subsequent events included Hogg bombarding his wife with numerous messages leading her to experience a panic attack and being arrested by the police for disturbing behaviour.

Despite his professional achievements and accolades within the sport, such as receiving an MBE for services to rugby, Hogg’s personal life has been marred by this domestic abuse case. The revelations of his prolonged abusive behaviour towards his estranged wife have raised serious concerns about his character and conduct off the rugby field. As the former Scotland rugby captain faces the consequences of his actions in court, the spotlight is not only on his sporting career but also on the impact of his abusive behaviour on his family and personal relationships. It serves as a stark reminder that individuals in the public eye are not exempt from being held accountable for their harmful actions, regardless of their professional success.