‘All good things come to an end’ – Springboks centre announces his retirement

Former Springboks centre Juan de Jongh has announced his retirement from professional rugby at the age of 35.

De Jongh has enjoyed a 15-year-long career representing Western Province, the Stormers, Wasps and South Africa in the XVs and sevens codes.

Bok centre retires

The Stormers confirmed the stalwart’s retirement on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday morning.

“A DHL Stormers legend bows out. All the best in retirement @JuanDeJongh and thanks for all you did for this team over the years,” their post read.

De Jongh made his debut for Western Province back in 2009 and went on to play over 70 times for the side during his two stints and won the Currie Cup on multiple occasions.

He made his debut for the Stormers in 2010 and played 97 times for the side during his first stint, adding three when he rejoined the Cape-based side in 2021 to notch up his century.

The centre impressed during his debut Super Rugby season for the Stormers and earned a Test call-up, scoring on his debut against Wales in 2010. He would go on to play 19 Tests for his country and was selected for the 2011 Rugby World Cup squad.

He also represented South Africa in the sevens format and notably picked up a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

All good things…

De Jongh made the move to England in 2017, joining Premiership outfit Wasps. During his four seasons at Wasps, he played over 60 matches, scoring 11 tries.

“I’ve made the decision to retire, and this is going to be my last year, I don’t think 2024 is going to see me,” De Jongh said on his podcast ‘Behind the Ruck’ with fellow ex-Springbok Rudy Paige.

“I enjoyed it, I had a long run as well, so I’m looking forward to enjoying the last couple of weeks, I will also be playing one more game, but yeah all good things come to an end.”

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