Cornal Hendricks
Cornal Hendricks during the 2020 Super Rugby match between the Bulls and Blues at the Loftus Versveld Stadium. Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

Home » RIP: Cornal Hendricks cause of death

RIP: Cornal Hendricks cause of death

Tragic news has come to light about the sudden death of former Springbok star Cornal Hendricks at just 37-years-old.

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15-05-25 07:15
Cornal Hendricks
Cornal Hendricks during the 2020 Super Rugby match between the Bulls and Blues at the Loftus Versveld Stadium. Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

Tributes and condolences have been understandably pouring in for former Springbok wing Cornal Hendricks, who was still playing top-level rugby with the Bulls just last year.

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Tragically, it’s now been confirmed that he has passed away after reportedly suffering a massive heart attack on Wednesday.

Hendricks made his Test debut in 2014 and went on to earn 12 caps for the Springboks, producing some unforgettable performances and try-scoring feats during this time.

Unfortunately, in 2016, he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition that effectively forced him into premature retirement at the age of 27.

A deal with French Top 14 side Toulon also fell through due to his diagnosis, but Hendricks never gave up on the prospect of making a comeback to the game.

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In 2019, Hendricks was given the all clear medically, and made a memorable comeback with the Bulls where he earned 115 caps and scored 34 tries across all competitions during a five-year stay.

Just last year, it was announced that he was leaving the Bulls, and it was thought that he could finish up his playing days back with the Boland Cavaliers.

As condolences flood in following the news of his sudden death, sports minister Gayton McKenzie shared this tribute on social media: “Rest in perfect peace Cornal Hendricks, you have made your mark by inspiring many. Death be not proud!”

TRIBUTES HAVE BEEN POURING IN FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF CORNAL HENDRICKS

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