Johnny Sexton – Obsessed
In addition, he is one of only twenty-three men, which includes some of the game’s greatest recent superstars – the likes of Jonny Wilkinson, Dan Carter and Richie McCaw – to have been named World Rugby Player of the Year. For all his brilliance and talent, it takes a certain character and personality to reach these dizzy heights – demanding, driven and, as his recent autobiography, details ‘obsessed’.
Indeed, while the book charts Sexton’s rise to being a four-time European Champions Cup winner and a five-time Six Nations victor, his journey is characterised by trials and tribulations, including a somewhat inauspicious start in the game, intense rivalries, media criticism and injuries, any of which would have seen lesser players off. But while the physical intensity of Sexton’s career is evident, even more so is his mentality and dedication to his craft and the game. The very best sports stars are laser-focused and there is no question of that in this near-400-page paean to his career.
Though Sexton may be seen as a somewhat divisive figure, this book offers the chance to learn more about the man himself, what makes him tick, what makes him see red and, ultimately, what makes him one of the game’s greatest ever players. And for the British & Irish Lions who will be stepping out for their first pre-Test match Down Under against Western Force tomorrow in Perth with Sexton in Andy Farrell’s backroom staff, there will certainly be plenty the World Player of the Year can bring in terms of lessons learnt along the way. Reviewed by Jade Craddock.