This past weekend marked a significant moment for South African rugby as Eben Etzebeth took to the field for his 128th appearance with the Springboks.
Fans around the globe showered him with congratulations, but it was the heartfelt message from his mother that truly stood out.
At just 32 years old, Eben has made his mark in rugby history, surpassing legends like Victor Matfield and Bryan Habana to become the most-capped player for the Springboks.
His latest achievement came during an exhilarating match where the Springboks triumphed over Argentina with a score of 48-7 at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, securing the Rugby Championship title.
A Touching Tribute from Mom
Before the match, Eben received an emotional welcome as he stepped onto the pitch.
Joined by his wife Anlia and their young daughter, he was honored with a traditional Zulu Impi introduction, complete with fireworks that illuminated his name and the significant number “128.”
It was a deeply moving moment for Eben, who was seen shedding tears during the national anthem—no doubt tears of joy reflecting the weight of this accomplishment.
After the game, his mother Karen and brother Ryen joined him on the field, waving to the enthusiastic crowd.
On Facebook, Karen shared her pride, writing, “What a great day for us! So incredibly proud of you, words cannot describe it! Well done, my boykie!”
Her post resonated with warmth, capturing the essence of a family celebrating a monumental achievement.
Family Support and Fond Memories
Eben’s cousin Emile also chimed in, expressing pride for the family.
He wrote, “You make the family… very proud! Thank you for who you are and what you have done for us. 128 NOT OUT!”
Eben’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly following the passing of his father, Harry Etzebeth, a former wrestler, in July 2023.
In a poignant reflection, Eben revealed that he dedicates each match to his late father, who was one of his biggest supporters.
Just before the last Rugby World Cup, fellow Springbok Makazole Mapimpi paid tribute to Harry, stating that the team was playing for Eben’s dad, highlighting the strong bonds formed within the team.
Looking Ahead: Eben’s Future in Rugby
After his historic match, Eben expressed his determination to continue playing for the Springboks as long as his body allows.
He shared, “I’ve made no secret that the reason I play this game is to play for this team, to perform for my club, and to be selected for the national side—that’s the ultimate.”
Eben emphasized his commitment to training hard and performing well, hoping to earn continued selection from the coaches.
While he prefers to keep his personal goals close to his heart, he remains focused and ready to push forward as long as he is physically able.
Eben Etzebeth’s journey continues, and rugby fans are eager to see what the future holds for this remarkable player.