Rugby

Lood de Jager Opens Up on Pericarditis That Ruled Him Out of 2023 Rugby World Cup

Published 7 Sep 2026

by Ncube Harrison

3 min read

Springbok lock Lood de Jager revealed he battled pericarditis during the 2023 World Cup buildup after playing through a viral infection
De Jager described a four-month recovery where he could not train or run and was left breathless climbing a single flight of stairs
Now 33 and preparing for his 76th Test cap against the All Blacks at FNB Stadium, De Jager said the health scare reshaped his view of the game

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Springbok lock Lood de Jager has spoken candidly about the pericarditis diagnosis that ended his 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign before it began, describing a recovery process that started with something as basic as walking up stairs.

Springboks, South Africa, Lood de Jager, Siya Kolisi — Referee Angus Gardner of Australia gives a red card to Lodewyk De Jager of South Africa while Siya Kolisi of South Africa looks on during the Autumn Nations Series 2025. Image: Jean Catuffe
Source: Getty Images

De Jager, now 33, told reporters that the condition, inflammation of the tissue surrounding the heart, was triggered by a viral infection he continued playing through without realising the extent of the damage.

"Your heart has to work so hard every day, because you're not quite healthy, that it builds up inflammation around the heart," he explained.

Four months of forced rest

The diagnosis brought an immediate and complete halt to his rugby life. For four months, De Jager could not train or run and found even minor physical activity exhausting.

Rehabilitation was gradual and tightly controlled, beginning with short walks before progressing to light jogging, with his heart rate monitored throughout.

"Initially I'd walk up a flight of stairs and be out of breath. Two months later, it feels better. And eventually you're back on the field," he said.

The experience shifted his relationship with the sport he has played at the highest level for more than a decade. He returned to the field, he said, with a greater sense of appreciation than before.

"It's very important to us, but it is just a game," he said ahead of his 76th Test cap, which comes against the All Blacks at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

De Jager eyes next generation of Bok locks

De Jager has gone from being one of the youngest players in South Africa’s 2015 World Cup squad to one of the experienced campaigners in the current group. That has given the veteran lock a close-up view of the players pushing to break into the national setup.

Among those who have caught his attention are Emile van Heerden and Bulls lock JF van Heerden. De Jager was particularly impressed by Emile’s all-round qualities, pointing to his work rate, physicality and ability to contribute to lineout calls.

He believes both players have the attributes needed to challenge for Springbok selection in the years ahead.

Springbok debutant weeps during National Anthem

Briefly News previously reported that prop Carlu Sadie, one of four players earning their first Springbok test cap against Wales, could not hold back his emotions as Joyous Celebration singer Pearl Adams performed the national anthem ahead of kick-off.