Rugby Union 43b4i
Former South African International Dies Aged 37 After Suffering Heart Attack 4a2923
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Ex-South Africa winger Cornal Hendricks has died at the age of 37 after suffering from a heart attack.
Hendricks, who made 12 appearances for the Springboks and scored five tries, died on Wednesday.
He made his 15-a-side rugby union test debut against Wales in 2014, having also represented South Africa in sevens.
After being diagnosed with a heart condition, he was forced to medically retire from professional rugby ten years ago.
But following a second opinion, he returned to the sport in 2019, g with Super Rugby side Bulls in Pretoria.
Hendricks played for the South Africa sevens team from 2011-2014, representing the Blitzboks at the 2013 sevens World Cup and winning a gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
The Vodacom Bulls are deeply saddened by the ing of Cornal Hendricks, aged 37. A 12-time capped Springbok and key player for the Vodacom Bulls from 2018 to 2023, Cornal was known for his ion, energy, and infectious smile both on and off the field.
CEO Edgar Rathbone… pic.twitter.com/4luafVgQg4
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) May 15, 2025
South African Rugby Pays Tribute To Cornal Hendricks 4d5p5j
In a 17-year professional career, Hendricks played a total of 233 first-grade matches.
Tributes have come rolling in from throughout the rugby community, with coaches and teammates honouring their friend and former colleague.
Bulls rugby director Jack White said: “Many people were shocked and sad when his career was cut short in 2015.
“When we had the opportunity to get him back on the park, he took that with open arms and made a remarkable use of his second lease in professional rugby.
“We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his team-mates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage. Rugby has lost one of the good ones.”
And Mark Alexander, president of South Africa Rugby, added: “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 ed.”