Eben Etzebeth makes retirement decision after latest concussion scare

Monday, 03 August 2026 at 08:48

bySteven Smith

Eben Etzebeth has made his feelings crystal clear about retirement after overcoming his latest concussion setback to earn an immediate recall to the Springboks squad for this weekend's Rugby Championship clash with Argentina.

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The 34-year-old lock had sparked fresh concerns over his long-term future after suffering another concussion, but Rassie Erasmus has now included the two-time Rugby World Cup winner in a 26-man squad to face Los Pumas in Buenos Aires alongside fellow returning stars Siya Kolisi, Lood de Jager and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.

Despite his recent injury troubles, Etzebeth has no plans to retire and remains determined to lead South Africa's bid for a third successive Rugby World Cup title in Australia in 2027.

Speaking about his future, the Springboks' record appearance holder said:

"I want to play as long as I can. As long as I'm fit, healthy and getting selected, I want to keep playing."

He added:

"If the coaches still believe in me and my body holds up, then I'll continue representing South Africa."

2027 remains the target

Etzebeth has repeatedly said that representing South Africa is still his biggest motivation.

"For me it's quite simple, just playing for the Springboks is the biggest motivation. It is such an honour representing my country every weekend."

He also admitted the competition for places keeps driving him.

"Every year you want to be on top of your game to be in that squad and force your way into the starting XV. That's always been my biggest motivation – not letting a young guy come through and take your position."

His inclusion for the Argentina Test is another major vote of confidence from Erasmus, who is carefully reintegrating several senior players ahead of a huge Rugby Championship campaign that also includes four Tests against the All Blacks.

For Etzebeth, the message remains unchanged: retirement can wait, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup still firmly in his sights.

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The Highest-Paid Springboks in 2026 (Ranked 10-1)

10. Lood de Jager (Saitama Wild Knights) – Estimated £450,000–£600,000

After overcoming a series of injury setbacks, De Jager has re-established himself as one of the world's premier locks. His lineout expertise, experience and leadership make him a prized asset for both the Wild Knights and the Springboks.

9. Manie Libbok (Hanazono Kintetsu Liners) – Estimated £500,000–£600,000

Libbok's move to Japan significantly increased his earning power. The gifted fly-half remains one of rugby's most exciting attacking talents and is among the latest Springboks to benefit from League One's financial strength.

8. Handré Pollard (Vodacom Bulls) – Estimated £600,000–£650,000

The double Rugby World Cup-winning fly-half returned to South Africa in one of the biggest deals in the country's professional era. While he turned down the opportunity to remain overseas, his Bulls package still ranks among the richest in the URC.

7. Jesse Kriel (Yokohama Canon Eagles) – Estimated £600,000–£750,000

A consistent performer for club and country, Kriel has become one of Japan's most respected overseas stars. His versatility across the backline and leadership qualities have helped secure one of the league's most valuable contracts.

6. Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz) – Estimated £700,000–£850,000

A two-time World Rugby Player of the Year, Du Toit remains one of the sport's biggest names. His relentless work rate and world-class pedigree ensure he continues to command one of rugby's most lucrative contracts.

5. Eben Etzebeth (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – Estimated £770,000

The most-capped Springbok in history remains the cornerstone of the Sharks pack. His combination of club earnings and national support keeps him among the highest-paid players in South African rugby.

4. Siya Kolisi (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – Estimated £775,000

The Springbok captain returned to Durban on a bumper deal after his spell in France. Combined with his immense commercial value and sponsorship appeal, Kolisi remains one of the biggest earners in the global game.

3. Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears) – Estimated £800,000–£900,000

Widely regarded as the best hooker in world rugby, Marx continues to be one of Japan Rugby League One's marquee signings. His dominance at the set-piece and breakdown has made him one of the highest-paid forwards in the sport.

2. Damian de Allende (Saitama Wild Knights) – Estimated £850,000–£950,000

The powerful centre has been a standout performer in Japan for several seasons. A two-time Rugby World Cup winner and one of the world's most complete midfielders, De Allende is believed to be among the competition's top earners.

1. Faf de Klerk (Free State Cheetahs) – Previously reported at around £900,000 in Japan

Before returning to South Africa in 2026, De Klerk was widely regarded as one of the highest-paid players in world rugby thanks to his lucrative deal with Yokohama Canon Eagles. While his move back to the Cheetahs is believed to have involved a significant pay cut, his previous contract remains one of the richest ever awarded to a Springbok.