Former Springboks Wing and Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist Passes Away at 37 Due to Heart Attack

Cornal Hendricks, the South African rugby player known for his impressive 12 appearances with the Springboks and his outstanding contributions in sevens rugby, has passed away at the age of 37.

Hendricks suffered a heart attack on Thursday, as confirmed by SA Rugby. He had been diagnosed with a heart condition back in 2015, leading to his retirement from professional rugby on medical advice, though he made a comeback in 2019.

Mark Alexander, the president of SA Rugby, expressed his deep sorrow over Hendricks’ untimely death, calling him a “remarkable athlete” who represented South Africa in both sevens and fifteen-man formats with great honour.

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The Bulls, where Hendricks spent the final years of his playing career, remembered him for his vibrant spirit and his gentlemanly conduct both on and off the field.

During his time with the Springboks, Hendricks played 12 Test matches as a winger between 2014 and 2015, scoring five tries. He was a key member of the South African sevens team from 2011 to 2014, clinching a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and competing in the Rugby World Cup Sevens in 2013, the same year he was voted South Africa’s player of the year in the sevens format.

During his 17-year professional career, in which he also played as a centre, Hendricks represented both the Cheetahs and the Bulls in competitions like Super Rugby and the United Rugby Championship.

“Cornal was a player who had a true passion for the game, working tirelessly while always wearing a smile and treating everyone with dignity,” Alexander remarked. “His vibrant spirit and zest for life were uplifting for his teammates and everyone around him.”

South Africa’s sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, shared a photo of Hendricks on social media, stating: “Rest in perfect peace, Cornal Hendricks. You have left a lasting legacy that inspires many.”

The Bulls, where Hendricks played between 2019 and 2024, remarked on his ability to “make remarkable use of his second chance in professional rugby,” as stated by their director of rugby, Jake White.

“We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his teammates and the South African community with his story of hope and determination,” White noted. “It was a great honour to have been his coach. He was a fantastic role model for the next generation, and his infectious enthusiasm for life will be sorely missed. Rugby has truly lost a remarkable individual today.”