South Africa icon Francois Steyn has announced his retirement from rugby aged 36.
A World Cup winner in both 2007 and 2019, Steyn has been forced to hang up his boots two months ahead of his country's world title defence due to a knee injury.
The utility back plied his trade with Sharks, Racing 92, Toshiba Brave Lupus, Montpellier and Cheetahs. He was part of the 2009 'Bok team to defeat the British and Irish Lions.
Writing on social media, he said: "It's been a tough few months coming to terms with saying goodbye to the game that has been my entire life. In answer to the many questions I have faced since sustaining a knee injury earlier this year, I am hereby announcing my retirement from professional rugby.
"To be honest, this is not how I envisioned the journey ending. Every player wants to end on their own terms, but I am fortunate to have played this game for so long and [I'm] incredibly grateful for the journey I have had. I have given it my everything, and I have no regrets.
"I have a massive number of people to thank from all around the world for the support throughout the highs and lows of my career. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities, the friendship, the memories and lessons that rugby has given me.
"I look forward to the next chapter and the opportunity to give back to the game that has given me everything. Thank you for all the support. It has been a massive honour."
Steyn's retirement comes after Scotland legend Stuart Hogg also called it a day on the eve of the Rugby World Cup in France.
