Watch: A tribute to Steven Kitshoff
Steven Kitshoff, who announced the end of his rugby career today, would have been at high risk of another injury if he continued to play.
Here’s a look back on the illustrious career of Springboks’ and Stormers’ juggernaut Steven Kitshoff, forced into retirement by a neck injury.
The 33-year-old suffered the injury playing in a Currie Cup match for Western Province in Kimberley last year. After undergoing initial conservative therapy, the decision was taken to have stabilising surgery.
Kitshoff has significantly reduced rotation of his neck and the medical advice warned that he is at high risk of another injury should he continue playing.
The athletic loosehead prop made 138 appearances for the Stormers and won 83 Test caps for South Africa in a distinguished career that included winning two world cups, a series against the British & Irish Lions and United Rugby Championship (URC) title on the first time trying.
READ: Kitshoff calls time on stellar career
Kitshoff was a teenager when he made his Western Province and Stormers debuts in 2011.
The first of 83 Tests, Kitshoff’s Bok bow came in the 19-13 victory over Ireland at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in 2016.
Kitshoff played 34 matches in the URC, famously leading the Stormers to the title in the inaugural season before joining Ulster for the 2023-24 season.
One of his Ulster appearances came against the Stormers in a 13-7 loss at Cape Town Stadium in March.
One of the greatest to ever do it, thanks for everything Kitsie. #iamastormer #spicyplum #kitsie pic.twitter.com/FExBNIoprI
— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) February 25, 2025
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