Springboks Star Dedicates Win Over All Blacks to SA Rugby Legend Who Died on Thursday
- Springboks star Damian Willemse has reacted to South Africa's resounding victory over the All Blacks of New Zealand on Saturday, September 13, 2025
- The South African rugby superstar dedicated the victory over their bitter rivals to a former Springboks star who passed on on Thursday, September 11, 2025
- The 27-year-old also explained why he is dedicating the win to Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus
Springboks star Damian Willemse has dedicated their victory over the All Blacks of New Zealand in Wellington to keeping their Rugby Championship title hopes alive.
The Springboks lost the first round of the tie at Ellis Park 24-17 last weekend (Saturday, September 6, 2025), but they bounced back with a classic 43-10 win over their bitter rivals on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
The win put them back in pole position to compete for the Rugby Championship title as they prepare to face Argentina later this month.
Source: Getty Images
Willemse dedicates Boks' win to Fortuin
Willemse paid tribute to the late former Springbok fullback Bevin Fortuin, who sadly passed away on Thursday, dedicating the victory to his memory.
“This one was for Bevin, who was not only a Springbok but also a close friend of mine. It was also for coach Rassie [Erasmus], who has stood firm for us despite all the criticism," he said.
"We believed our moment would arrive, and tonight it did. Full credit to the team, the guys rose to the occasion and delivered an outstanding performance.”
With injuries in the backline forcing Willemse to shift from inside centre to fullback early in the clash, he explained that the team never lost their composure.
Source: Getty Images
“We went into the match with the right mindset. Looking back at last week’s performance, we could see exactly where things fell short, particularly our inability to make the most of opportunities inside their 22. This time, we executed far better when it mattered,” he added.
He also praised the collective effort behind the scenes: “The players who’ve been analysing and strategising deserve recognition, as do the coaches who put in the extra work to guide us.”
Willemse was also praised by netizens on social media for his blistering performance against the All Blacks.
Gordy B. said:
"What a game from the Boks. Manie has silenced his critics for now...he was masterful! Damian Willemse....wow!! Its hard to believe Ethan Hooker hasn't been playing at this level for years! Boer size and muscle combines perfectly with African flair and speed to be INVINCIBLE!"
Rich_M_Andrews wrote:
"Damian Willemse had (IMO) his best game in a Bok shirt today. Wow - we have some serious talent and depth in our back line! 💪🏻💪🏻"
Graeme Peacock shared:
"Man of the match Damian Willemse for sure, he would be in my side every time, sublime & supremely talented-1 of the great performances. Runner up & not far behind PSDT, immense today, no coincidence when PSDT plays well the pack performs."
LineBreak_ added:
"Damian Willemse's performance against the All Blacks was nothing short of phenomenal, showcasing his versatility and skill. Starting at inside center and later shifting to full-back after Aphelele Fassi's injury, Willemse seamlessly adapted to the new role, demonstrating his value to the Springboks. His ability to find weak shoulders and break through the All Blacks' defense was on full display, and he continued to shine even after being moved to full-back."
Springboks legend dies after brief illness
Briefly News earlier reported that a Springboks legend has passed on after a brief illness at his residence in South Africa.
The former Boks star received a tribute from the South African rugby president, Mark Alexander.
Source: Briefly News
