Former South Africa winger Hendricks dies aged 37
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South African rugby is mourning the loss of former international winger Cornal Hendricks, who passed away at the age of 37 after suffering a heart attack. His death was confirmed on Wednesday, sending shockwaves through the local and global rugby communities.
Hendricks, a gifted athlete known for his explosive pace and relentless spirit, earned 12 Test caps for the Springboks, scoring five tries during his tenure with the national team. His debut came in 2014 against Wales, marking the start of a promising international career that was celebrated both for its brilliance and resilience.
Before breaking into the 15-a-side format, Hendricks made his name in rugby sevens. Between 2011 and 2014, he was a key figure in the South African Sevens team, the Blitzboks. He represented his country at the 2013 Rugby World Cup Sevens and played a pivotal role in South Africa’s gold medal triumph at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
In 2015, Hendricks’ career was abruptly halted when he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition. The announcement shocked fans and the wider rugby world, as Hendricks was at the height of his athletic prowess. Medical advice at the time forced him into early retirement, a devastating blow for a player with so much more to give.
But Hendricks’ story didn’t end there. Determined to return to the game he loved, he sought further medical evaluations and, in 2019, was cleared to return to professional rugby. He joined the Pretoria-based Bulls in Super Rugby, launching a remarkable comeback that became an inspiration to many.
Over the course of his 17-year career, Hendricks played 233 first-class matches, showcasing not just his talent but his unyielding determination and resilience. His story of overcoming adversity to return to top-level rugby served as a beacon of hope for many aspiring athletes facing personal and professional hurdles.
Bulls Rugby Director Jake White reflected on Hendricks’ career and impact: “Many people were shocked and saddened when his career was cut short in 2015. When we had the opportunity to get him back on the park, he took that with open arms and made remarkable use of his second lease on professional rugby. We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his teammates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage. Rugby has lost one of the good ones.”
South African Rugby Union President Mark Alexander also paid tribute to Hendricks, describing him as a player who brought joy and positivity to everyone around him.
“Cornal was one of those players who loved the game and worked extremely hard, but he always did so with a smile on his face, treating all people with respect,” Alexander said. “His energy and love of life, on and off the field, lifted his teammates and those around him. His contributions to the sport and his unwavering dedication will always be remembered.”
Hendricks’ legacy lives on not just in the statistics of his career, but in the hearts of fans, teammates, and all who knew his story. His ability to face adversity with courage and grace made him more than a rugby player — he became a symbol of perseverance and hope.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the rugby world, South Africa remembers Cornal Hendricks not only for his performances on the pitch but for the strength of character he showed throughout his life. He is survived by loved ones, friends, and a global community that admired and respected him deeply.
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