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South African rugby is mourning the loss of Cornal Hendricks, the former Springbok winger who passed away at the age of 37 on May 14, 2025, following a suspected heart attack .
Born on April 18, 1988, in Paarl, Hendricks began his rugby journey with the Boland Cavaliers, making his first-team debut in the 2008 Currie Cup Premier Division . He later represented South Africa in rugby sevens from 2011 to 2014, earning selection for the Blitzboks in the 2013 Rugby World Cup Sevens and securing a gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Hendricks made his Test debut for the Springboks in 2014 against Wales, scoring five tries in 12 appearances . However, his career faced a significant setback in 2015 when he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition, leading to a temporary retirement from professional rugby . After receiving a second medical opinion, he made a remarkable comeback in 2019 with the Bulls, contributing to their Super Rugby Unlocked and Currie Cup victories .
In 2024, Hendricks returned to his roots by joining the Boland Cavaliers, the team where his professional journey began .
SA Rugby president Mark Alexander paid tribute to Hendricks, stating, “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 team-mates and those around him. His contributions to the sport and his unwavering dedication will always be remembered” .
Hendricks’ journey from a small-town player to an international rugby star, his battle with a life-threatening condition, and his triumphant return to the sport serve as an enduring inspiration to many .
