Perry Baker, a three-time Olympian and two-time World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year, is second in all-time tries scored on the sevens circuit. He is widely regarded as not only the greatest American sevens player ever but also one of the greatest rugby players in history, regardless of country or game format. Currently, however, he is seeking a full-time job.

“I’m thoroughly enjoying retirement,” Baker says shortly after confirming his decision to retire at 38. “Spending more time with the kids, being at home more.” Baker has three sons aged between two and 20. His youngest son is energetic, buzzing around during our conversation.

“But I’m also relishing the role of assistant coach… it’s a time to give back, to mentor the next generation.” Baker is assisting Simon Amor, the new USA men’s sevens coach, at the Olympic training center in Chula Vista near San Diego. However, this role is only temporary until January, and Baker is fervently hoping to secure a permanent position.

It seems astonishing that such a prodigious talent—tall and athletic like the wide receiver he once was, briefly signed by the Philadelphia Eagles, swift as the wind, and as elusive as a proverbial bag of weasels—should be searching for employment. But in the US, where rugby’s foundation is shallow and coaching and media opportunities are scarce, this is often the case.

Baker considered extending his playing career for at least another year on the sevens circuit. However, the end of the Olympic cycle brought changes—Amor replacing another Englishman, Mike Friday, as coach, and players changing as well—leading Baker to realize it was time to move on. “I enjoy playing, and I will still play sevens at some point, but on an international level, the daily grind and travel took a toll on my body. Now, I feel ready to transition into something else and find happiness elsewhere.”

Major League Rugby, the US professional men’s 15s competition, will commence its eighth season next year. The league is experiencing its usual flux—the Dallas Jackals will not compete in 2025—but Baker’s presence would undoubtedly add significant star power.

“I know my age is a factor for many,” he admits, “but I’m not old in terms of a rugby player’s body.” Baker discovered rugby early in Florida with the Daytona Beach Coconuts but only committed to it full-time at 27, in 2013 with Tiger Rugby in Ohio. He quickly became a USA regular, and despite a decade on the sevens world circuit testing anyone physically, Baker, as a wing rather than a forward constantly taking hits, has managed his injuries well.

Baker’s Eagles won numerous tournaments, including a memorable victory in Las Vegas in 2018, but fell short in their Olympic pursuits. Olympic glory was not always the plan; Baker initially aimed to finish college, play in the NFL for eight to ten years, and retire by 32. A knee injury thwarted that dream, leading him to switch to rugby.

Asked about the highs and lows of his sevens career, Baker reflects on the camaraderie with his teammates. “The good times with the boys… that’s what I miss the most.” He also mentions the disappointment of not achieving their goal at the Olympic Games, feeling he let down many supporters over his 10-year career.

Baker has partnered with Dallen Stanford and Steve Lewis to launch FlagX, a US version of an Australian touch rugby organization aimed at boosting skills and fitness for sevens and 15s players. He envisions FlagX as a franchise model, akin to CrossFit, fostering a community committed to the sport.

Despite his diverse interests, Baker is still figuring out his future career path. “I’m all over the place,” he laughs. “My main focus is to be an assistant coach and also work on FlagX rugby.” He also harbors a dream of a complete career shift—to law enforcement, specifically as a homicide detective, feeling called to help others and bring closure to families.

Baker’s journey has been extraordinary, from discovering rugby in Florida to playing on the world stage. “Rugby changed my life,” he says. “I never imagined I’d travel to places like Hong Kong, China, or Japan. My mom has experienced these places because of rugby, and I’m forever grateful.”

For now, Baker’s rugby career is over, but his journey continues. “Put a PS message in there too,” he says with a laugh. “Tell them I need a six-figure job.”

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