Steven Kitshoff retires after life-threatening neck injury

South African rugby prop Steven Kitshoff has announced his retirement due to a serious neck injury sustained in September during a Currie Cup match. The injury left him just two millimeters from death, prompting surgery and extensive rehabilitation, but ultimately resulted in significantly reduced neck mobility. Kitshoff, a two-time World Cup winner, expressed deep disappointment over his career ending prematurely, stating that the risk to his health was too great to continue playing. Tributes have poured in from South Africa's head coach Rassie Erasmus and his former club Ulster, praising Kitshoff's contributions to the sport and his dedication as a teammate. Despite his retirement, Kitshoff's legacy remains intact, highlighted by his significant achievements, including his role in the Springboks' successful campaigns in 2019 and 2023. His decision is a somber reminder of the physical risks professional athletes face.