Springboks legend Eben Etzebeth has addressed his retirement plans as questions grow over his future following another injury setback.
The two-time World Cup winner celebrated his 35th birthday on October 29, just a day after being ruled out of South Africa's November internationals.
Etzebeth is currently recovering from a leg injury and will miss the Nations Championship clashes with Italy, France and Ireland.
With the 2027 Rugby World Cup now less than a year away, his previous comments about retirement have taken on fresh significance.
Eben Etzebeth makes retirement stance clear
Speaking to Rapport in 2025, Etzebeth made it clear he had no plans to walk away from international rugby.
"I want to wear that No 4 jersey in the green and gold as many times as possible," he said.
"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."
However, the veteran admitted that injuries become harder to manage with age.
"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 that every career eventually reaches its conclusion.
"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."
Eben Etzebeth has no plans to call time on his Springboks career as he targets a third successive Rugby World Cup triumph.
Springboks star faces another injury setback
Etzebeth's latest absence comes at a difficult time for Rassie Erasmus.
The experienced lock was one of four World Cup winners ruled out of South Africa's November squad, alongside Cheslin Kolbe, Handre Pollard and André Esterhuizen.
The setback follows previous injury problems, including spells on the sidelines with concussion symptoms.
Despite those concerns, Etzebeth has not announced any plans to retire.
For now, his ambition remains unchanged. He wants to continue representing the Springboks for as long as his body allows.
Whether that includes another World Cup remains to be seen.
Pick your Springboks XV for the Nations Championship
With Eben Etzebeth sidelined, Rassie Erasmus faces some big selection decisions.
Who would you pick in your starting XV? Choose your Springboks team below and see how your selections compare with other fans.
