As rugby fans around the world gear up to mark the 30th anniversary of the iconic 1995 Rugby World Cup final this coming Tuesday, it’s impossible not to reflect on the players who left their mark on that historic day.
One name that stands out above many is Joost van der Westhuizen—a legend of the game, a Springbok icon, and a hero who’s still deeply missed.
The Moment That Made History
One of Joost’s most unforgettable contributions came during that very final in ’95, when he tackled New Zealand powerhouse Jonah Lomu in a move that has since become the stuff of rugby folklore.
That single moment captured the heart and grit he brought to every match, but it was just one highlight in a career packed with game-changing performances.
A Career Marked by Glory
After helping the Springboks lift the World Cup on home soil, Joost’s career was far from over.
He played international rugby for eight more years, adding to his impressive list of achievements.
He bagged a Tri-Nations title and lifted the Currie Cup twice, all while solidifying his spot as one of the best scrumhalves in the game.
A Record-Breaking Springbok
Capped 89 times for South Africa, Joost became the go-to scrumhalf from the mid-’90s into the early 2000s.
By the time he retired, he had not only led from the front but also etched his name into the history books with 38 Test tries—a world record for a scrumhalf at that time.
He played in three World Cups—1995, 1999, and 2003—and was recognized globally when he was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 2007.
A Leader in Every Format
Joost’s leadership wasn’t limited to just the 15-man game.
He’s the only Springbok to have captained the national side in both the traditional format and in Sevens during World Cups.
That rare versatility made him a standout in every sense of the word.
Life After Rugby
After hanging up his boots, Joost briefly stepped into broadcasting with SuperSport before pursuing opportunities in the business world.
Though his time off the field was more private, he continued to carry himself with the same strength and dedication that made him a star on the pitch.
A Brave Battle with MND
In 2011, Joost was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), a devastating condition that he faced with immense courage.
Despite his declining health, he chose to use his platform to raise awareness and support others.
In 2012, he launched the J9 Foundation, which still supports MND sufferers today—with his family playing an active role in keeping the mission alive.
A Legacy That Lives On
Joost van der Westhuizen passed away in 2017 at just 45 years old, but his legacy lives on through every try, every tackle, and every heart he touched—both on and off the field.
He’s one of five Springboks from that unforgettable 1995 final who are no longer with us, and his story continues to inspire a new generation of fans and players.
Share Your Joost Memories
As part of this ongoing tribute series, fans are encouraged to share their favourite memories of Joost’s legendary career.
Whether it was that famous Lomu tackle or a moment you saw live in the stands, every story adds to the celebration of a player who gave everything for the green and gold.