Double Rugby World Cup Winner Steven Kitshoff Retires Due to Severe Neck Injury

The 33-year-old South African prop ends his career following medical advice after a life-threatening injury sustained during a domestic match.

Steven Kitshoff, a two-time Rugby World Cup champion with South Africa, announced his retirement at age 33 due to a serious neck injury.
The injury, sustained during a Currie Cup match in 2024, required surgery and extensive rehabilitation but left him with reduced neck mobility.
Medical specialists warned that continuing to play posed a high risk of further injury, prompting Kitshoff to retire for his safety.
Kitshoff played 83 international matches for the Springboks, contributing to their 2019 and 2023 World Cup victories, and had a notable club career with the Stormers, Bordeaux, and Ulster.
In a statement, Kitshoff expressed disappointment at ending his career prematurely but emphasized gratitude for achieving his childhood dream of representing South Africa in rugby.