Jonny Wilkinson

Rugby Player

Jonny Wilkinson, a fly-half for England Rugby Union and one of the most famous players in international professional rugby, was catapulted to stardom when his drop goal during extra time won England the World Cup in 2003. Wilkinson made his debut in 1998, joining the Newcastle Falcons (his local club) and England Rugby Union. On the field he has a reputation for accurate kicking and fierce tackling; off the field he has a reputation for practicing incessantly and avoiding publicity. After his dramatic role in the 2003 World Cup victory, Wilkinson became a national hero in England, was named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year and awarded the Order of the British Empire. He also had neck and shoulder surgery, which kept him out of action for eight to ten months. In 2004 he released an autobiography, My World, and was named captain of England's team.

Other English athlete-celebrities include David Beckham and Michael Owen.