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South African rugby bids farewell to one of its finest, as Steven Kitshoff announces his immediate retirement due to medical reasons. A two-time Rugby World Cup champion and the captain who led the Stormers to their inaugural Vodacom URC title, Kitshoff’s career has been nothing short of legendary.
A Career Built on Power and Passion 💪🔥
Kitshoff, known for his fiery red hair and relentless scrummaging, was a mainstay in both the Springbok and Stormers front rows. Over 13 years, he earned a reputation as one of the world’s best loosehead props. From his Bok debut in 2016 to lifting the 2023 World Cup, he embodied the spirit of South African rugby.
The Toughest Call: Retirement Due to Injury 😔
At 33 years old, Kitshoff’s playing days have come to an unexpected end after undergoing neck fusion surgery following an injury in a Currie Cup clash last year. While the surgery was successful, it left him with 50% reduced neck mobility, making it impossible to continue playing at the highest level.
“I really wanted to finish my story with the Stormers on the pitch, and gave my rehab everything I had,” said Kitshoff. “But unfortunately, the risk to my health was simply too high.”
A True Stormers Legend 🌊🏆
Kitshoff’s legacy with the Stormers is undeniable. With 138 caps, he is the third-most capped player in the franchise’s history. His leadership on and off the field was a driving force behind the team’s historic URC title win in 2022.
“Steven Kitshoff is an iconic player who will go down as one of the greats,” said Stormers director of rugby John Dobson. “Beyond his incredible ability, he is a top human being who treated everyone with respect and stayed grounded throughout his career.”
The Ultimate Bok Scrummager 🇿🇦🏉
From his early days as Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira’s understudy to owning the No. 1 jersey, Kitshoff was instrumental in the Springboks’ success. A key member of the Bomb Squad, he played 83 Tests, starting only 29, but always delivering in the set-piece, mauls, and at the breakdown. His achievements include:
✅ 2019 & 2023 Rugby World Cup winner
✅ 2021 British & Irish Lions series winner
✅ Back-to-back Rugby Championship titles
A Rugby Journey That Came Full Circle 🔄🏉
Kitshoff’s career began at Paul Roos Gymnasium, where he shone in schoolboy rugby before making waves with SA’s U20 team, winning the 2012 Junior World Championship. After rapid success with Western Province, he spent a season in France’s Top 14 with Bordeaux, before returning home in 2017 to help shape one of the most dominant Stormers packs.
More Than Just a Player, A True Role Model 🙌
Nicknamed “Spicy Plum” and “Big Red”, Kitshoff’s presence on the field will be missed, but his legacy will inspire future generations. Though his playing days are over, his impact on South African rugby will never fade.Thank you, Steven Kitshoff, for giving everything to the game. Wishing you all the best for the next chapter! 🇿🇦💚💛
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