BREAKING: South Africa rugby star Cornal Hendricks dies aged 37 as heartbroken team-mates pay tribute

Former South Africa star Cornal Hendricks has died aged 37 after suffering a heart attack. Hendricks played 12 times for Springboks between 2014 and 2015.

The winger played his entire club career, which spanned from 2008 to 2024, in his homeland. Hendricks turned out for Boland Kavaliers, Cheetahs, Bulls and Blue Bulls as well as his country in rugby sevens.

After joining Stormers in 2016, he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition. He returned to rugby in 2019 with the Bulls, producing form which put him on the verge of a recall for winners South Africa.

Hendricks' final match came against in last year's quarter-finals. South Africa Rugby confirmed the news of his passing on Thursday morning.

They said that Hendricks would be remembered as a 'remarkable athlete' who always played the game with a 'smile on his face'. Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby, paid tribute by saying: "We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Cornal Hendricks, a remarkable athlete who represented his country in sevens and fifteen-man rugby with distinction.

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"Cornal was one of those players who loved the game and he worked extremely hard, but he always did so with a smile on his face, treating all people with respect. His energy and love of life, on and off the field, lifted his team-mates and those around him.

"His contributions to the sport and his unwavering dedication will always be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Stephaney and their children, his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations."

Bulls chief executive Edgar Rathbone added: "We are deeply saddened and still trying to come to terms with the passing of Cornal, a loved member of the Loftus family who was more than a talented player. He knew how to deliver just about the right dose of energy to help lift a room, he was an iconic team-mate, a friend for many seasons, and an inspirational figure in the locker room.

"A brother, a son and an inspiration to both the old and young. A man with such an infectious smile that brightened our , and above all, we knew Cornal as a proud dad to his young kids.

"We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, his wife, children and everyone else who is affected by his untimely and tragic death. A special player who defied all the odds and became our inspiration for everyone, may he rest in perfect peace."