Faf de Klerk and Malcolm Marx both hailed Frans Steyn as a legend of Springbok rugby after the veteran called it a day on his professional rugby career. DYLAN JACK reports.
Steyn announced his retirement from professional rugby, after struggling to recover from a knee injury he suffered earlier this year.
MORE: Frans hangs up boots ‘without regrets’
The 36-year-old was poised to become the first Springbok to play at four World Cup tournaments, before the injury placed him in a race against time to prove his fitness for France 2023.
In 2021, Steyn surpassed Victor Matfield as the Springbok with the longest international career and the veteran back’s final Test appearance came in September 2022, putting him just short of a 16-year Test career.
Two of Steyn’s teammates from the 2019 World Cup, where he played a crucial role as a leader and utility option off the bench, paid tribute to him on Wednesday.
“He’s an unbelievable person and an even better rugby player,” said Springbok hooker Marx.
“I mean, the career that he had is unbelievable, the achievements speak for themselves. A massive congrats to him…I am lost for words to say how incredible his career has been.
“All the best to him for the next chapter of his life.”
Springbok scrumhalf De Klerk said that while he only got to play alongside Steyn towards the backend of his career, the former Sharks, Racing and Cheetahs back left a lasting impact.
“In 2019, it was great to be playing with him and to experience the type of person that he is, a huge guy,” said De Klerk.
“He cares so much for the team and the Springboks. We’ve seen that. He’s prepared to do anything for his teammates. I think he is the youngest guy to ever win the World Cup. The things he did with kicking and how he played was amazing.
“I think he is looking forward to the future now and some time with his family. He is a great person and we are going to miss him here at the Springboks.”
Photo: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP