Springboks Star Etzebeth Breaks Silence on Retirement After Ban, Says He’s Not Ready to Step Away
Double Rugby World Cup–winning Springboks lock Eben Etzebeth has addressed growing speculation about his future, insisting retirement is not on the cards despite a recent suspension and increasing competition for places in the national team.
The veteran forward said his motivation to continue representing South Africa national rugby union team remains as strong as ever and that he hopes to wear the famous No.4 jersey for as long as his body allows.
“I’m Not Thinking About Retirement”
Etzebeth, who has accumulated more than 130 Test caps for South Africa, said he is focused on staying fit and maintaining his place in the squad rather than setting a specific timeline for retirement.
Speaking to Rapport, the towering lock said his competitive spirit is still driving him to push for selection.
“I want to wear that No.4 jersey in the green and gold as many times as possible
“The competitive spirit is still strong in me – I’m not giving up my place. I want to be in the team for as long as possible,” he said.
Etzebeth added that he is not planning his career around a specific end date, choosing instead to take things season by season.
Suspension Sparks Debate About His Future
Discussion about Etzebeth’s long-term future intensified after he received a 12-week suspension in December following an incident during South Africa’s Test against Wales national rugby union team.
An independent disciplinary panel found the Springbok lock guilty of eye gouging Welsh back-row Alex Mann during the match in Cardiff on 29 November.
The incident, which occurred during South Africa’s emphatic 73–0 victory, resulted in Etzebeth’s first red card in more than 140 Test appearances for the world champions.
The experienced forward later admitted the moment was a mistake.
Younger Stars Pushing for Places
Etzebeth acknowledged that competition for places in the Springbok squad continues to intensify as younger players emerge.
He highlighted fellow locks Salmaan Moerat and Ruan Nortje as examples of rising stars who are already performing at world-class level.
According to Etzebeth, the growing depth in South African rugby is exactly what keeps him motivated to improve.
“Every year the younger guys are just bigger, better and faster,” he said.
Reality of a Short Rugby Career
Despite his determination to keep playing, Etzebeth acknowledged that rugby careers can end suddenly, often through injury.
He pointed to the example of former Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff, whose career was cut short earlier than expected.
“The curtain falls for everyone,” Etzebeth said, noting that injuries can end careers at any stage.
For now, however, the towering lock remains determined to extend his Springbok career and continue competing at the highest level.
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The post Springboks Star Eben Etzebeth Speaks on His Retirement appeared first on iHarare News.
