Deon Fourie’s Honest Admission After Setting the Record As the Oldest Springbok Ever

• Deon Fourie has added another remarkable chapter to his Springbok career after reaching a milestone that puts him alongside some of South Africa’s greatest rugby names
• The veteran forward reached the landmark during a memorable night at DHL Stadium, where his experience was once again called upon against the All Blacks
• Fourie’s latest achievement comes as he approaches his 40th birthday, with his extraordinary longevity continuing to attract attention in the Springbok setup

Deon Fourie has opened up about his age after becoming the oldest Springbok ever to play in a Test, adding another remarkable chapter to his international career.

Fourie was 39 years and 338 days old when he started at hooker in South Africa’s 33-26 victory over New Zealand at DHL Stadium on Saturday, 29 August 2026. The result levelled the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series at 1-1.

The milestone saw Fourie move beyond a record that had belonged to Victor Matfield since 2015. The legendary lock was 38 years and 172 days old when he played his final Test for the Springboks against Argentina on 30 October 2015. Matfield earned 127 caps for South Africa and was a key figure in the team that won the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

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Fourie admits his age had him nervous

Schalk Brits had also come close to Matfield’s mark, playing for South Africa against Canada at the 2019 Rugby World Cup at 38 years and 145 days.

Fourie, who turns 40 on 25 September, admitted reaching the record wasn't without nerves.

Speaking to former scrumhalf Ricky Schroeder on Super Sport, he said:

“I think I was a bit nervous during the week for my age, but I'm glad I got pulled through.”

The Stormers veteran played 35 minutes before being replaced by Malcolm Marx.

Fourie gives typically relaxed response

Asked how his body felt after the physical encounter, Fourie replied:

“Nothing that a few beers won't fix.”

The 2023 World Cup winner has since been named on the bench for Saturday’s third Test at FNB Stadium.

You can watch Deon Fourie speaking on the SuperSport video below:

Deon Fourie’s wife shares proud message

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Briefly News previously reported that Deon Fourie had made Springbok history, but away from the rugby headlines, his wife Jean-Marie had her own message for the veteran forward.

In an emotional Instagram tribute, Jean-Marie highlighted a side of her husband that supporters rarely see, describing his approach to success and explaining why the achievement meant so much to their family.

Source: Briefly News