Deon Fourie: Springboks Veteran in Tears During Performance of SA’s National Anthem vs All Blacks
- Deon Fourie, aged 39, made history as the oldest Springbok to play in a test match during the Greatest Rivalry series against the All Blacks
- The veteran was visibly emotional during the national anthem, performed by singer Belinda Davids at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg
- Fourie's selection has raised questions about whether he could feature at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia
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Springbok flanker Deon Fourie was seen in tears during the performance of South Africa's national anthem before the Springboks faced New Zealand at FNB Stadium, in what became one of the most emotional moments of the Greatest Rivalry series.
The 39-year-old was selected late by coach Rassie Erasmus for the match, a decision that cemented Fourie's place in rugby history as the oldest Springbok ever to take the field in a test match. Singer Belinda Davids performed the anthem ahead of kick-off, and cameras captured tears streaming down Fourie's face as the words rang out across the stadium. South Africa went on to win the match 29-24.
Fourie reflects on wearing the Green and Gold
Speaking to SuperSport in the days leading up to the fixture, Fourie was candid about the personal significance of the call-up.
"It's a privilege to wear the Green and Gold again. I'm so thankful for the support. I was nervous about my age, but I'm glad I pulled through," he said.
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The veteran will turn 40 on 25 September, just days after the final leg of the series between the Springboks and the All Blacks, scheduled to take place in Baltimore, Maryland.
Could Fourie play at the 2027 Rugby World Cup?
The question now being asked in rugby circles is whether Fourie could extend his career to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, set to be hosted in Australia from 1 October to 13 November that year.
If selected, Fourie would be 41 at the time of the tournament, which would make him not only the oldest Springbok at a World Cup but potentially the oldest player in the competition's history. Former Springboks Victor Matfield and Schalk Brits both appeared at World Cups at the age of 38, in 2015 and 2019 respectively.
The current record for the oldest player at a Rugby World Cup belongs to Uruguayan Diego Ormaechea, who was 40 when he featured in the 1999 tournament.
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Source: Briefly News
