Willie Le Roux shares message to young players after 100th cap

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Willie Le Roux has encouraged up-and-coming rugby players not to give up on their dreams after he made his 100th test appearance for the Springboks over the weekend.

The 35-year-old made his debut for the South African national rugby team in 2013. He has played in three Rugby World Cups, the last two of which the Boks have won.

WILLIE LE ROUX SHARES EMOTIONAL MESSAGE AFTER 100TH CAP

In an emotional Instagram post, Willie Le Roux thanked the public for their well-wishes on his 100th test match. The cap took place on Saturday, 12 July, in South Africa’s game against Italy at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Gqeberha.

SA won the game 45-0.

Sharing a collage of pictures for the special occasion, Willie posted: “Playing my 100th test match for the Springboks is something I’ve wanted since I was a child. It’s a moment that feels so surreal and incredibly humbling.

“The journey to get to here was never easy…there were definitely some tough times – injuries, doubts, setbacks – moments where the road ahead felt way too steep. But I held onto belief and kept pushing. Because when you love something this deeply, you find a way to keep going.

Willie le Roux used his own experience to encourage other aspiring rugby players.

He continued: “Believe in your dreams. No matter where you come from, no matter how far away your goals may seem – it is possible. It does, however, take a lot of hard work, discipline, sacrifice, and heart”.

WHO IS THE HIGHEST CAPPED SPRINGBOK?

The highest-capped Springbok is currently Eben Etzebeth, who has made 132 appearances in green and gold.

Last October, the 33-year-old surpassed Victor Matfield’s previous record of 127 caps. Apart from the duo, only six more Springboks have surpassed 100 test caps: Bryan Habana, Tendai Mtawarira, John Smit, Jean de Villiers, Percy Montgomery, and now Willie le Roux.

In an Instagram post, Eben congratulated Willie on his achievement.

He posted: “What a privilege to know you and share a rugby field with you for the last few years. You are a legend, my brother and an incredible person”.

He added: “WLR100 sounds just about right!”.