Frans Steyn hangs up his boots

Legendary Springbok Frans Steyn has announced his retirement from professional rugby, bringing an end to an illustrious career that saw him win two World Cup titles.

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The veteran Springbok and Cheetahs back has been struggling to recovery from a knee injury, which placed him in a race against time for a fourth World Cup tournament appearance.

But Steyn ended all speculation on Tuesday night when he released a statement on social media confirming his retirement with immediate effect.

FRANS STEYN STATEMENT

“It’s been a tough few months coming to terms with saying goodbye to the game that has been my entire life,” Steyn said.

“In answer to the many questions I have faced since sustaining a knee injury earlier this year, I am hereby announcing my retirement from professional rugby.

“To be honest, this is not how I envisioned the journey ending. Every player wants to end on their own terms, but I am fortunate to have played this game for so long and [am] incredibly grateful for the journey I have had.

“I have given it my everything, and I have no regrets.

“I have a massive number of people to thank from all around the world for the support throughout the highs and lows of my career. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities, the friendship, the memories and lessons that rugby has given me.

“I look forward to the next chapter and the opportunity to give back to the game that has given me everything.

“Thank you for all the support. It has been a massive honour.”

BREAKING: Frans Steyn announces retirement from rugby

THE SPRINGBOK’S CAREER SUMMARY

Steyn ends his career with 78 Test caps for the Springboks, scoring 165 points (including 11 tries).

Having started his international career on the left wing in 2006, his final Test appearance came at flyhalf in the Rugby Championship match against Argentina in Durban last September, when he kicked two conversions and a penalty to help the Springboks win 38-21.

The 36-year-old was a crucial part of the Springbok squads that won the 2007 and 2009 World Cup (one of only two South Africans to do so), while he also helped the Boks win the British & Irish Lions Series and Tri-Nations in 2009.

Domestically, Steyn started his career at the Sharks in 2006 and had two stints in Durban, while he also played for Racing 92, Toshiba Brave Lupus and Montpellier overseas, before returning to South Africa to finish his career with the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, where he was schooled.