Springbok and Stormers legend Steven Kitshoff has been forced to retire from rugby due to a severe neck injury.
The Stormers confirmed the news on Tuesday after Kitshoff consulted medical specialists. The double World Cup-winning prop had been out of action since September after suffering a career-threatening neck injury while playing for Western Province in the Currie Cup. This came shortly after recovering from a serious knee injury.
Last year, the 33-year-old underwent surgery in which part of his hip bone was used to fuse vertebrae in his neck. Despite efforts to return, uncertainty remained about his future in the sport. Tuesday’s announcement officially marks the end of his career, during which he earned 138 caps for the Stormers and 83 Test caps for South Africa, winning the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and 2023.
The Stormers’ statement explained that Kitshoff’s rehabilitation left him with significantly reduced neck mobility. A specialist neurosurgeon advised that continuing to play would pose a high risk of further injury.
Reflecting on his retirement, Kitshoff admitted the past six months had been extremely difficult but expressed gratitude for reaching the pinnacle of the sport and representing his childhood teams.
“Rugby has been my life since I was young, and I was fortunate to achieve my dream of playing for the Springboks and the Stormers,” he said. “Ending my career this way is disappointing, but the risk to my health was too great. I gave everything I could to my rehab and comeback, but it wasn’t meant to be.”
Kitshoff, who also played for Bordeaux Begles in France and Ulster in Ireland, thanked his family, coaches, teammates, and supporters for their unwavering support.
“From my wife, Aimee, and my parents to the coaches, teammates, and fans, I am deeply grateful for the role they played in my career. While I’ll miss playing and the thrill of representing something bigger than myself, I look forward to this next chapter of my life. I’ll continue supporting the Stormers from the stands, just like I did as a kid, and cherish the incredible memories I’ve made,” he added.
Stormers director of rugby John Dobson paid tribute to Kitshoff, calling him an “iconic player” and one of the game’s greats.
“Steven Kitshoff has left an undeniable mark on rugby. Only two players Brok Harris and Frans Malherbe have earned more caps for the Stormers. Beyond his remarkable career, he is a humble, respectful, and grounded individual. From a young prodigy to one of the world’s best, he will be remembered as a fantastic player and a true credit to his family,” Dobson said.
“His passion for the Springboks and the Stormers was evident in everything he did, and that love was reciprocated by the fans.”
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