Wigan Warriors were crowned back-to-back Super League champions with a 9-2 victory over Hull KR in the Grand Final. As the Warriors celebrated their incredible achievement of a historic quadruple, Joe Bullock expressed deep regret over his departure from the team, saying, “I should have won with them.” This bittersweet sentiment highlights the emotional toll professional sports can take on players, especially those watching former teammates bask in glory from afar.
The match showcased a sensational performance, particularly from Bevan French, whose dazzling solo effort put the Warriors on the scoreboard. This victory marked a milestone for the club, having also clinched the World Club Challenge, League Leaders’ Shield, and Challenge Cup in the same calendar year—an achievement that had not been accomplished since 1998.
For Bullock, now on loan at Salford Red Devils, witnessing his former teammates bask in glory from afar has been a challenging experience. “Seeing what they’ve accomplished this season is tough. I regret leaving. I haven’t lived up to my own expectations this season,” he lamented, reflecting on the emotional weight of his decision to part ways with Wigan.
Bullock’s career has been a journey filled with ups and downs. After beginning his rugby league career with the Blackpool Scorpions, he was scouted by Wigan while still a junior. He made his Super League debut in 2019, becoming part of a team that would eventually contend for multiple titles. Bullock’s time with Wigan culminated in the 2020 Grand Final, where they narrowly lost to St Helens. The experience of being so close to victory left a lasting impression on him, making his subsequent departure in 2021 all the more poignant.
Transitioning to Warrington Wolves in 2022, Bullock faced a tumultuous season where he played a significant role in helping the team avoid relegation. However, despite his efforts, he felt disconnected from the glory and success that he had known with Wigan. His move to Salford has been another chapter in his career, but the shadow of his time with Wigan looms large.
“I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on what could have been,” Bullock admitted. “The camaraderie and the atmosphere at Wigan are something special. Watching them win all these trophies, I can’t help but think about how much I wanted to be part of it. I’m grateful for my time there, but it’s tough not to feel like I missed out on something incredible.”
The Warriors’ recent victory has further amplified Bullock’s sentiments. With Wigan’s captain, Liam Farrell, celebrating a phenomenal season and the club’s head coach, Matt Peet, expressing pride in his team, Bullock’s words resonate deeply. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and choices players make in pursuit of their careers, often leading to profound regret when things don’t go as planned.
As Wigan Warriors bask in their historic achievement, Joe Bullock is left with a poignant reminder of what could have been, fueling his determination to carve out a successful path with Salford and, perhaps one day, return to the level of glory he once knew with Wigan.