Springbok’s wife posts emotional message amid his retirement
The wife of newly-retired Springbok and Stormers player Steven Kitshoff penned an emotional message about him being more than a rugby star.
Springbok and Stormers star Steven Kitshoff has been forced to retire amid his career-ending injury. However, his wife Aimee posted an emotional message assuring him that he is more than just a celebrated rugby player.
Steven and Aimee wed in 2019 are one of the Bok’s favourite couples.
STEVEN KITSHOFF FORCED INTO RETIREMENT
On Tuesday, 25 February, Steven Kitshoff announced the heartbreaking news of his forced retirement.
Last year, the Springbok sustained a neck injury followed by a complicated surgery and rigorous rehabilitation.
The 33-year-old said in a statement, “Playing rugby has been my life from a young age, and I was lucky enough to live the dream of many young boys by representing the Springboks and the Stormers.
“It is obviously incredibly disappointing for my career to end in this way, but unfortunately, the risk to my wellbeing was simply too high. I really wanted to finish my story with the Stormers on the pitch and gave the rehab and comeback the best shot I could, but it was not to be.”
Almost a year ago, Steven injured his neck during a Western Province Currie Cup game against the Griquas.
The 32-year-old claimed he heard a “snap” in his neck during a scrum. He later confirmed the injury had affected his C1 and C2 vertebrae.
Following the incident, Steven underwent a gruelling surgical operation called a neck fusion, which essentially fused the injured vertebrae.
He also began a rehabilitation process, hopeful he would one day return to the pitch.
SPRINGBOK’S WIFE PENS EMOTIONAL POST
Meanwhile, Steven Kitshoff’s wife, Aimee has posted an emotional message to him following the news of his retirement.
It read: “My Dearest Steven,
“I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how incredibly proud I am of everything you’ve achieved as a rugby player. Your hard work, dedication, and passion for the game have been nothing short of inspiring. Watching you grow, compete, and excel has been an absolute privilege.
Aimee added that Steven Kitshoff – nicknamed “Spicy Plum” – was more than just a Springbok and Stormers star.
She continued: “But beyond your incredible achievements on the field, I am even prouder of the person you are. Your kindness, strength, and character are qualities that make you so special, and they shine through in everything you do.
Of his retirement, she posted: “As you step into this new chapter and retire from rugby, I want you to know that I’m wishing you the most incredible journey ahead. I know this isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning of even more extraordinary things that await you. You’ve already shown the world what you’re capable of, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.”
DID SPRINGBOK STEVEN KITSHOFF MAKE THE RIGHT MOVE IN RETIRING?
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