Springbok legend Steven Kitshoff announces retirement due to neck injury

South African legend Steven Kitshoff has been forced to retire from the sport following medical advice regarding a serious neck injury.

The 33-year-old Springbok prop, known for his dominance in the scrum, has decided to step away from the game after consulting with specialists who warned of the high risk of further damage should he continue playing.

Kitshoff sustained the injury during a Currie Cup match for Western Province in Kimberley last year. Initially, conservative therapy was pursued, but after a stabilising surgery and extensive rehabilitation, he was left with significantly reduced neck rotation.

Medical professionals advised that continuing to play would put his long-term health at risk, leading to the difficult decision to retire.

Kitshoff leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having earned 138 caps for the Stormers and representing the Springboks 83 times. His international career saw him become a two-time Rugby World Cup winner and play a key role in South Africa’s 2021 British and Irish Lions series victory.

His journey began as an 18-year-old, when he was given special permission to train with the senior Stormers squad. He made his Stormers debut in 2011 and quickly established himself as one of the most formidable front-row players in world rugby.

One of the highlights of his career came in 2022 when he lifted the United Rugby Championship trophy at Cape Town Stadium, helping the Stormers to a historic title in their first URC season.

Reflecting on his retirement, Kitshoff admitted that the last six months had been incredibly tough, but he remains grateful for the opportunities rugby has given him.

“Playing rugby has been my life from a young age and I was lucky enough to live the dream of many young boys by representing the Springboks and the Stormers.

"It is obviously incredibly disappointing for my career to end in this way, but unfortunately, the risk to my wellbeing was simply too high.”

He had hoped to make a return to the pitch for the Stormers but ultimately had to accept that it was not possible.

“I really wanted to finish my story with the Stormers on the pitch and gave the rehab and comeback the best shot I could, but it was not to be.”

Kitshoff expressed his deep appreciation for the support he has received throughout his career.

“There are so many people who have provided incredible support for me over the years, not least my wife Aimee and my parents.

"I will always be grateful to all of the coaches, teammates and support staff at both the Stormers and SA Rugby and of course the fans who have had such a big impact on my career.”

Though he will miss playing the game, Kitshoff is excited for the next chapter of his life.

“As much as I will miss playing and the special feeling of running out to represent something much bigger than myself, I am also looking forward to an exciting new chapter in my life.”

He reassured Stormers fans that he will continue to support the team, stating,

“I’ll be there at Cape Town Stadium cheering the boys on, just like I did as a youngster. I walk away from my playing days with so many incredible memories that I will cherish forever.”