Tributes are pouring in from across the rugby world as Sharks and Springbok wing JP Pietersen announced his retirement this week.
The 34-year-old played 70 times for the Springboks. scoring 24 tries. He also made 180 appearances for the Sharks, with whom he has now taken up a junior coaching role.
READ: Pietersen retires, confirms coaching role
Former teammate Bryan Habana shared a heartfelt tribute to his friend and Springbok wing partner on Instagram:
View this post on Instagram
Congratulations to @jppietersen14 as he calls time on an amazing 16 year career. Bows out as one of @Springboks finest wingers and a @rugbyworldcup winner! ??? pic.twitter.com/O6fj6PA3JX
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) February 5, 2021
‘Legend’ seems to be the word with a host of ex players commenting exactly this on Pietersen’s instagram announcement of his retirement…
Some fans took to Twitter to highlight some of their favourite moments from Pietersen’s illustrious career …
First try in Super Rugby @jppietersen14 ? pic.twitter.com/C5DDjqbLtM
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) February 5, 2021
JP Pietersen annonce sa retraite. De loin l’action que je préfère de lui ❤️ pic.twitter.com/N5GiEeDdt1
— Arnaud Coudry (@ArnaudCoudry) February 5, 2021