Duane Vermeulen: Springboks Legend Announces Retirement After 2023 Rugby World Cup Win

• Duane Vermeulen has retired from professional rugby after helping South Africa to the 2023 World Cup
• The impressive star helped the Springboks defend their title as they defeated New Zealand in the final
• Vermeulen made his debut in 2012 for the Springboks and was in action for 11 seasons

Springboks superstar, Duane Vermeulen has officially called time on his illustrious career after helping his country to the 2023 Rugby World Cup title.

The 37-year-old former captain will be retiring from the sport after an incredible career which spanned 76 tests and more than 11 seasons.

Vermeulen featured in over 100 games in the green and gold, having started 68 of his Tests in the No. 8 jersey.

He played three times at flanker and five times off the bench, scoring three tries for South Africa.

Vermeulen made his Test debut in Perth in 2012 against Australia, and that journey came to an end after he played against New Zealand in the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final in Paris.

Bongi Msomi's SPAR Proteas come up short in first international against Australia

Other Sports

The South African reports that he also won the SA Rugby Player of the Year Award twice (2014 and ’20), along with an elite club of only five players who have won the award more than once since the advent of professionalism: Schalk Burger (2004, ’11), Bryan Habana (2005, ’07, ’12), Fourie du Preez (2006, ’09), Jean de Villiers (2008, ’13), and Pieter-Steph du Toit (2016, ’18, ’19).

Fans react to Vermuelen's retirement

Fans have taken to social media to hail the legend. One said:

“African Steel, the toughest of them all.”

A second added:

“Will be sorely missed but will add huge value to life after playing on the coaching field. Enjoy your retirement Duane.”

A fan wrote:

“No ways. Thank you for your service Sir.”

Fan hits Kolisi’s wife with ball

Sports Brief earlier reported that Springboks captain, Siya Kolisi was stunned when a ball hit his wife during the Rugby World Cup title tour in Cape Town.

AFCON 2023: Former Nigerian International Mikel Obi Explains Why Ahmed Musa Is Important

Football

South Africa defeated New Zealand 12-11 in a pulsating final at the Stade de France to retain the prestigious title.

Upon their return to the country, the Springboks embarked on a trophy tour around some cities, including Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, and East London, amongst others.