Frans Steyn: The journey of the two-time World Cup winner

Frans Steyn remains a significant figure in South African rugby following a professional career defined by two Rugby World Cup titles. The versatile back earned 78 caps for the Springboks and became famous for his ability to kick goals from distances exceeding 55 metres.

Steyn first achieved global recognition during the 2007 Rugby World Cup. At 20 years and 159 days old, he became the youngest player to lift the Webb Ellis Cup during the final against England. A notable moment in that match occurred in the 62nd minute when he successfully converted a 48-metre penalty to extend the South African lead to 15-6.

His international success continued twelve years later when he secured a second World Cup medal in 2019 after South Africa defeated England in Japan. Throughout his playing days, Steyn was noted for his physical strength, versatility, and long-range kicking accuracy.

While his professional journey began with the Sharks, Steyn spent much of his career abroad. He played in France for seven years with Montpellier and Racing 92, and also spent three years playing in Japan. He eventually returned to South Africa in 2020 to join the Cheetahs after an 11-year absence from the country.

An injury to his knee in 2023 forced Steyn to retire from professional rugby. Since then, he has transitioned into leadership roles within the sport. He served as the Director of Rugby for the Cheetahs before moving into the role of head coach for the Free State side.

Off the field, Steyn is married to Linca and they have three daughters. He continues to contribute to the game through his coaching and management work in South Africa.