Steven Kitshoff resigns rugby
Legendary Springbok and Stormers prop Steven Kitshoff has officially retired from rugby following a serious neck injury.
The Stormers confirmed the heartbreaking news on Tuesday, 25 February, stating that the 33-year-old had consulted medical specialists before making the difficult decision to step away from the game.
Kitshoff, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, has been sidelined since September after sustaining the injury while representing Western Province in the Currie Cup.
Despite months of rehabilitation, the risk to his long-term health proved too significant to continue playing.
With 83 Test caps for South Africa, he played a crucial role in the Springboks’ back-to-back World Cup triumphs and the victorious British & Irish Lions series.
Reflecting on his retirement, Kitshoff acknowledged the emotional toll but expressed gratitude for his journey.
“Playing rugby has been my life from a young age, and I was lucky enough to live the dream of many young boys by representing the Springboks and the DHL Stormers. It is incredibly disappointing for my career to end this way, but unfortunately, the risk to my well-being was simply too high.”
He thanked his family, teammates, and supporters for their unwavering encouragement and looks forward to the next chapter.
“As much as I will miss playing, I am also looking forward to an exciting new chapter. I will be at DHL Stadium cheering the boys on, just like I did as a youngster.”
