Warren Gatland reveals personal tragedies as Wales prepare for Six Nations opener against France

Wales head coach Warren Gatland says personal tragedies have helped put life and rugby into perspective. Photo / Photosport

Wales coach Warren Gatland has opened up about several personal tragedies that took place in 2024 - one of the worst seasons in recent history for the national side.

Under Gatland, Wales failed to win a test in 2024 losing 12 straight, including their first home defeat to Fiji.

But talking to the BBC ahead of this year’s Six Nations, the New Zealander said off-the-field events put the results into perspective.

“2024 was a tough year, but not just from a rugby perspective,” Gatland said.

“My son’s best friend was killed, hit by a car in Sydney. We had a couple of friends who were the same age as me who unfortunately passed away.

“A good friend of mine’s grandson passed away as well.”

Gatland revealed at one point his wife suggested he walk away from rugby.

“It does put things into perspective, it puts life into perspective. It puts the importance of what you’re doing in sport into perspective.

“My wife said - ‘Do you need to put yourself through this? Why don’t you just come to the beach and just enjoy yourself?’.”

Gatland’s Wales side open the Six Nations tomorrow in Paris against a heavily favoured French side.