The 36-year-old has been struggling with the knee injury that he sustained during the early rounds of the Currie Cup, and this has ruled him out of action for this year’s Rugby World Cup in France.

Steyn made his debut for the Springboks in 2006 at the age of 19-years-old against Ireland in Dublin. He played on the wing in his debut and scored a try.

This after featuring in only a handful of Currie Cup games, but it was enough to impress the then coach, Jake White.

He went on to play in 76 Tests for the Springboks and won the World Cup in France in 2007 and in Japan in 2019. This made him only the second Springbok to win two World Cups, with the other being another Free State legend, Os du Randt.

During his career Steyn played for the Sharks, as well as Racing Metro, Montpellier, Toshiba Brave Lupus and most recently the Cheetahs.

Steyn joined the Cheetahs from Montpellier in 2020 with the intention of finishing his career in Bloemfontein.

On Tuesday night Steyn released a statement announcing his immediate retirement from the sport.

“It has been a tough few months coming to terms with saying goodbye to the game that has been my entire life,” said Steyn.

“In answer to the many questions I have faced since sustaining a knee injury earlier this year, I am hereby announcing my retirement from professional rugby.

“To be honest, this is not how I envisioned the journey ending. Every player wants to end on their terms, but I am fortunate to have played this game for so long and incredibly grateful for the journey I have had.

“I have given it my everything and I have no regrets.

“I have a massive number of people to thank from all around the world. For the support throughout the highs and lows of my career, I will forever be grateful for the opportunity, the friendships, the memories, and the lessons that rugby has given me.

“I look forward to the next chapter and the opportunity to give back to the game that has given me everything.

“Thank you for all the support. It has been a massive honour.”

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Morgan Piek OFM Sport