The rugby world is mourning the loss of Cornal Hendricks, a talented South African player who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 37. Hendricks’ death was confirmed by SA Rugby on Thursday, with the organization revealing that he had suffered a heart attack. This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the rugby community, with tributes pouring in from fans, teammates, and coaches who knew him.

Hendricks was a remarkable athlete who represented his country with distinction in both sevens and fifteen-man rugby. He made 12 appearances for the Springboks between 2014 and 2015, scoring five tries and leaving a lasting impression on the sport. His achievements also included winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2014 and being voted South Africa’s player of the year in the sevens format in 2013. Hendricks’ 17-year club career saw him play at center and wing for the Cheetahs and the Bulls in Super Rugby and the United Rugby Championship.

Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby, expressed his deep sadness at Hendricks’ passing, describing him as a “remarkable athlete” who always treated others with respect. Alexander recalled that Hendricks was a player who loved the game and worked extremely hard, but always did so with a smile on his face. His energy and love of life had a profound impact on those around him, lifting his teammates and inspiring the community.

The Bulls, where Hendricks played from 2019 to 2024, remembered him as a “gentleman on and off the field” who had a “zeal for life.” Jake White, the team’s director of rugby, praised Hendricks for making a remarkable comeback to professional rugby after being diagnosed with a heart condition in 2015. White described Hendricks as a fantastic role model for the next generation, saying that his appetite for life was infectious and that he had inspired his teammates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage.

South Africa’s sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, also paid tribute to Hendricks, posting a photo of him on social media with the words: “Rest in perfect peace Cornal Hendricks, you have made your mark by inspiring many.” As the rugby world comes to terms with the loss of this talented player, it is clear that Hendricks’ legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the memories he created on and off the field. His passing is a reminder of the impact that sportsmen and women can have on their communities and the importance of living life to the fullest.