Springbok legend Frans Steyn retires from rugby

Springbok legend Frans Steyn has announced his retirement from rugby with immediate effect at the age of 36.

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Steyn, who was Springbok #783, made his debut against Ireland at Lansdowne Road in Dublin on 11 November 2006.

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He would go on to win two Rugby World Cups – in 2007 in France and 2019 in Japan – and along with Os du Randt they are the only two Springboks to have tasted World Cup success on multiple occasions.

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Steyn holds the record for being the youngest player to win a World Cup after helping the Springboks beat England in the 2007 final.

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Frans Steyn took to social media on Tuesday evening to announce that he was stepping away from the game, writing: “It’s been a tough few months coming to terms with saying goodbye to the game that has been my entire life.

“In answer to the many questions I have faced since sustaining a knee injury earlier this year, I am hereby announcing my retirement from professional rugby.

“To be honest, this is not how I envisioned the journey ending. Every player wants to end on their own terms, but I am fortunate to have played this game for so long and [am] incredibly grateful for the journey I have had.

“I have given it my everything, and I have no regrets.

“I have a massive number of people to thank from all around the world for the support throughout the highs and lows of my career. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities, the friendship, the memories and lessons that rugby has given me.

“I look forward to the next chapter and the opportunity to give back to the game that has given me everything.

“Thank you for all the support.

“It has been a massive honour.”

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