South African rugby is in mourning following the tragic passing of former Springbok winger Cornal Hendricks, who died late Wednesday evening at the age of 37.
South Africa Rugby confirmed that Hendricks passed away due to a heart attack. He had an illustrious career, playing 12 Tests for the Springboks between 2014 and 2015, and representing the Blitzboks from 2011 to 2014, where he won a Commonwealth Games gold medal in Glasgow in 2014. Additionally, he was part of the Rugby World Cup Sevens squad in Moscow in 2013.
In 2013, Hendricks was named Springbok Sevens Player of the Year. He began his senior career with the Sanlam Boland Cavaliers, where he also concluded his playing days earlier this year in the SA Cup. Domestically, he represented Boland, the Cheetahs, and the Bulls.
In 2016, Hendricks signed a two-year deal with Western Province and the Stormers but was diagnosed with a serious heart condition that prevented him from playing for them. A deal with French Top 14 side Toulon also fell through due to his diagnosis, and he retired from rugby at the age of 27.
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However, in 2019, Hendricks’ improved health saw him make a comeback with the Bulls, where he earned 115 caps and scored 34 tries across all competitions during a five-year stay.
Throughout his career, Hendricks played a total of 233 first-class matches, scoring five tries in his 12 Test appearances. He also participated in one non-Test match for the Springboks and represented the SA ‘A’ team.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Cornal Hendricks, a remarkable athlete who represented his country in both sevens and fifteen-man rugby with distinction. It was a privilege and an honour to have been his coach; he was a fantastic role model for the next generation, and his appetite for life was infectious. Rugby has lost one of the good ones today,” said Mr. Alexander, President of SA Rugby.
Bulls director of rugby Jake White expressed condolences on behalf of the club: “Everyone’s thoughts at the club are with Cornal’s family, friends, and peers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone added, “We are deeply saddened and still trying to come to terms with the passing of Cornal, a loved member of the Loftus family who was more than just a talented player.”
The Vodacom Bulls are deeply saddened by the passing of Cornal Hendricks, aged 37. A 12-time capped Springbok and key player for the Vodacom Bulls from 2018 to 2023, Cornal was known for his passion, energy, and infectious smile both on and off the field.
CEO Edgar Rathbone… pic.twitter.com/4luafVgQg4
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) May 15, 2025
