Springboks Duane Vermeulen has been dubbed ‘Springbok great’ by President of the Rugby Union, Mark Alexander, following his decision to officially bow out from the rugby union.
It’s official! Boks back row Duane Vermeulen has retired.
The 37-year-old back left the rugby union with 76 tests over 11 seasons.
President of the Rugby Union, Mark Alexander described Vermeulen as a formidable force for the Springboks and a multifaceted player who consistently delivered his best.
“Duane made a massive impression wherever he went, and looking at his achievements all over the world, it’s clear that he was not only a Springbok great, but a superb ambassador for South Africa.”
Last dance for the Springboks greatest #8 .
— MB5 (@MB5Plug) October 27, 2023
Duane Vermeulen ends his Hall of Fame career in rugbys biggest ever game. A player that's carried the Boks and constantly has been one of the best for over a decade. Thank you Duane , one more to go.
Greatness. pic.twitter.com/uFFu40JoYz
👕 76 caps
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) November 8, 2023
🏆 2x SA Rugby Player of the Year
🥇 2x Rugby World Cup winner
🦁 British & Irish Lions Series winner
🗣️ “Duane will forever be regarded as one of the real hard men of South African rugby." - Mr Mark Alexander.
Thor has called time on his Springbok career 🫡 pic.twitter.com/8hEgY8VSTa
“I know Duane still has a lot to give back to our wonderful game, but as his playing career comes to an end, on behalf of the entire South African rugby family, I would like to thank Duane for his selfless service to his country and the Springboks, as well as his provincial unions.”
“I would like to wish him, his wife, Ezel, and their two sons, Anru and Zian, the best for their future.” said Alexander.
Vermeulen ended his career in style with his final win being his second World Cup winner’s medal and being named player of the match in the semi-final against England during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
