Eben Etzebeth makes retirement call after lengthy ban

Thursday, 18 December 2025 at 13:42

byRugby Rucker

South Africa enforcer Eben Etzebeth has broken his silence after receiving a lengthy ban, admitting the incident that led to his red card against Wales was “a mistake”.

The Springboks lock, a double World Cup winner, was handed a 12-week suspension last week after an independent disciplinary panel ruled that he was guilty of eye gouging Wales back-rower Alex Mann.

The flashpoint occurred during South Africa’s 73–0 demolition of Wales in Cardiff on 29 November, marking Etzebeth’s first red card in 141 Test appearances for the world champions.

Following the hearing, the 34-year-old fronted up publicly, taking to social media to accept responsibility.

“Now that my hearing is done I think I owe everyone an explanation,” Etzebeth said on social media.

“First of all, this is not a post to show that I was not guilty, I accept guilt. I made a mistake and I'm willing to serve a suspension which I deserve.

“I don't want young kids who look up to the Springboks to think that it's OK to eye gouge someone, because it's not, but unfortunately mistakes happen and I made a big one for which I'm sorry.”

Retirement talk? Etzebeth not done yet

Despite the suspension and growing questions about his long-term future, Etzebeth has made it clear that retirement is not on his radar.

The veteran lock, who has amassed 133 Test caps, insists his hunger to represent South Africa remains undiminished.

“I want to wear that No 4 jersey in the green and gold as many times as possible,” he told
Rapport.

“The competitive spirit is still strong in me – I’m not giving up my place. I want to be in the team for as long as possible.

“I’m not thinking about playing until a certain year – I’m just going to keep pushing. The key is staying fit and avoiding injury, because recovery is harder as you get older.”

Etzebeth also acknowledged the realities of a brutal professional game, pointing to how quickly careers can be cut short.

“The curtain falls for everyone. It came early for [prop] Steven Kitshoff, but that was due to injury – it could have happened when he was 24.

“Every year the younger guys are just bigger, better and faster. Players like Salmaan Moerat and Ruan Nortje are already world class. They push me to improve – and that’s the way it should be.”

2027 Rugby World Cup draw:

Pool A

New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.

Pool B

South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.

Pool C

Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.

Pool D

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
Scotland – Creative attackers with growing confidence and slick backline play.
Uruguay – Tenacious, organized, and fearless against bigger rugby nations.
Portugal – Exciting, fast-paced, and thriving with a young, fearless core.

Pool E

France – Electric, unpredictable, and capable of brilliance from anywhere.
Japan – High-tempo, disciplined, and tactically sharp—they never stop moving.
USA – Athletic and physical, with a growing pool of exciting talent.
Samoa – Bone-shaking tackles, powerful runners, and trademark island flair.

Pool F

England – Structured, strategic, and capable of grinding down any opponent.
Wales – Proud, passionate, and dangerous when the momentum swings their way.
Tonga – Heavy hitters with explosive power and fearless intensity.
Zimbabwe – Energetic and ambitious, bringing speed and spirit to every contest.

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!