Burns' introduction to international rugby was nothing short of spectacular. At 22, he came off the bench to score critical points against the All Blacks, securing a memorable 38-21 victory. His performance was a glimpse into his potential, as he quickly followed up with a series of strategic kicks that kept the All Blacks on their toes until the final whistle.
However, Burns' journey was not without its hiccups. A memorable lesson came in a European Champions Cup match against Toulouse in 2018. After breaking free for what seemed like a match-winning try, Burns prematurely celebrated, only to have the ball knocked from his grasp by Maxime Medard, costing Bath the game. This moment of humility was a harsh lesson in the highs and lows of professional sport.
"No-one is going to be as disappointed as Fred. He is always the guy that is training first and finishing last. There won’t be an issue getting behind him."
"When Freddie is on form he’s fantastic for this team,"added captain Rhys Priestland.
Burns' redemption came in the climax of the 2022 season with Leicester Tigers. Coming off the bench early due to an injury to George Ford, Burns found himself steering the ship in the final match of the season. With the game tied against Saracens and time expiring, Burns nailed a decisive drop goal, catapulting Leicester to victory and sealing his personal comeback narrative.
"It was one of those where I was ecstatic to get it over and then I looked up and saw there were still about 25 seconds on the clock. A few years ago I made a fool of myself celebrating too early, and I didn’t want to make it happen again."
The celebrations that followed were as memorable as the match. Post-victory, Burns took center stage at the team function, belting out "Country Roads" and soaking in the adulation. But the night didn't end there. His antics continued as he claimed, in the presence of his then-partner, that the day's triumphs were his alone—a comment that, despite its boldness, was part of the Freddie Burns charm.
The festivities extended into the night, culminating with Burns streaming live from his hotel room, jubilantly singing Queen's "We Are The Champions" while indulging in a late-night snack from McDonald's. This blend of victory and vibrant celebration encapsulated why Burns was more than just a player; he was a showman.
As Freddie Burns steps away from the pitch, the rugby world will miss his unique blend of skill, spirit, and spontaneity. His career might have been punctuated by a modest number of international caps, but his impact on the sport was anything but modest. With a legacy of memorable moments, both triumphant and teachable, Burns leaves behind a lasting impression on fans and fellow players alike.
