Ex-South Africa rugby star dies aged 37 after being forced to retire early

Former South African rugby star Cornal Hendricks has died aged 37 years old following a heart attack. The Springbok back made 12 caps for his country between 2014 and 2015, and also represented the South African rugby sevens team, winning Commonwealth gold in 2014.

He had suffered from a heart condition throughout his playing career, with Hendricks forced to prematurely hang up his boots in 2016 aged just 27. It came after the condition had scuppered moves to South African side Stormers and French outfit Toulon.

Following a second medical opinion, Hendricks returned to elite-level action in 2019, signing for the Bulls, whom he represented until 2024. During his second stint as a professional, Hendricks won two Currie Cups in his homeland before returning to Boland last year in an attempt to qualify his local side for the competition.

A statement from the South Africa Rugby read: "The South African rugby community was shocked and saddened to hear the news of the passing of Cornal Hendricks...

"The 37-year-old Hendricks passed away due to heart attack on Wednesday evening. Apart from playing in 12 Tests for the Springboks in 2014 and 2015, he also represented the Blitzboks between 2011 and 2014, with whom he won a Commonwealth Games gold medal in Glasgow in 2014. He was also a member of the Rugby World Cup Sevens squad in Moscow in 2013."

President of South Africa Rugby, Mark Alexander, stated: "We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Cornal Hendricks, a remarkable athlete who represented his country in sevens and fifteen-man rugby with distinction. Cornal was one of those players who loved the game and he worked extremely hard, but he always did so with a smile on his face, treating all people with respect. His energy and love of life, on and off the field, lifted his teammates and those around him.

"His contributions to the sport and his unwavering dedication will always be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Stephaney and their children, his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations."

His former club said in a statement: "The Vodacom Bulls are deeply saddened by the passing of Cornal Hendricks, aged 37," his former club said in a statement. "A 12-time capped Springbok and key player for the Vodacom Bulls from 2018 to 2023, Cornal was known for his passion, energy, and infectious smile both on and off the field."

Bulls director of rugby Jake White said: "Many people were shocked and sad when his career was cut short. When we had the opportunity to get him back on the park, he took that with open arms and made a remarkable use of his second lease in professional rugby. We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his teammates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage.

"It was a privilege and honour to have been his coach, a fantastic role model for the next generation and his appetite for life was infectious. Rugby has lost one of the good ones today."