Two-time Rugby World Cup winning Springbok prop, Steven Kitshoff, has been forced to retire from rugby following a serious neck injury. Kitshoff’s wife, Aimee, penned a heartfelt message for her husband of seven years, following the news.
According to News24, Steven’s retirement from Rugby was confirmed on Tuesday morning, after Kitshoff had sought specialist medical advice. According to the publication, the career-altering injury happened during Currie Cup duty for Western Province.
A statement shared by the Stormers read: “Following an extensive rehabilitation process he has been left with significantly reduced rotation of his neck and the advice from a specialist neurosurgeon was that there would be a high risk of another injury should he continue playing.”
Kitshoff’s wife, Aimee, a public relations specialist, penned a heartfelt message of support for her husband, following his retirement from rugby.
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“My Dearest Steven, I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how incredibly proud I am of everything you’ve achieved as a rugby player. Your hard work, dedication, and passion for the game have been nothing short of inspiring. Watching you grow, compete, and excel has been an absolute privilege.”
Aimee has cheered her champ along from the sidelines, through two Rugby World Cup matches in 2019 and 2023. In conversation with YOU, Steven paints Aimee as his biggest supporter:
“She’s been there through the best and the worst of times. When I’m injured, she takes care of me. She’s amazing. She always gets me back on track.”
“Beyond your incredible achievements on the field, I am even prouder of the person you are. Your kindness, strength, and character are qualities that make you so special, and they shine through in everything you do,” continues Aimee’s letter to her husband.
“As you step into this new chapter and retire from rugby, I want you to know that I’m wishing you the most incredible journey ahead. I know this isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning of even more extraordinary things that await you. You’ve already shown the world what you’re capable of, and I can’t wait to see what comes next,” the letter reads.
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Feature Image: Instagram / @aimee_kitshoff
