Eben Etzebeth showered with praise after historic 128th Springbok appearance

Cape Town — South African rugby star, Eben Etzebeth, was showered with messages of congratulations following his record-breaking 128th appearance against Argentina this past weekend.

However, there was one message that stood out above the rest – and that was from his mother, Karen Etzebeth. She wrote a simple message to her son on Facebook after he featured for South Africa in their 48-7 victory over Argentina, to claim the Rugby Championship title.

“What a great day for us!! Soo incredibly proud of you, words cannot describe it! Well done my Boykie!” she said.

Ahead of the game, Etzebeth’s 128th appearance was recognised and honoured in style as he was welcomed onto the pitch. He was joined by his wife, Anlia and their baby daughter, as a banner reading “Eben 128” was set alight by fireworks by a Zulu Impi.

The towering lock was overcome with emotions as he cried during the national anthem, but the whole country joined the rest of the Etzebeth family in honouring Eben on his special day.

Eben Etzebeth Cap Number 128 and the most capped Springbok 🧢 Dont think he’ll break the most capped rugby player, Alun Wyn Jones with 171. But definitely think he can get to Sam Whitelock 153 caps. And a beautiful message from captain Siya Kolisi 👏 @Springboks #Rugby 🏉 pic.twitter.com/mXUM3aKXj6

— Suleman Modan (@Figjamfan) September 29, 2024

According to The South African, Eben’s brother, Ryen, and his cousin, Emile, also paid tribute to his achievement with messages of support. Unfortunately for him though, his father Harry, died in July 2023 and was unable to witness the special achievement of his son.

However, Eben has said that he dedicates every match he plays to his late father, while Springbok winger, Makazole Mapimpi, also revealed shortly before the 2023 Rugby World Cup that the team was playing for Eben’s dad.

“For Tata ka Eben”, he said.

In the aftermath of his history-making performances, Eben said he will continue to play for South Africa for as long as his body will allow.

“I’ve made no secret that the reason I play this game is to play for this team, to perform for my club, and to be selected for the national side – that’s the ultimate. So, I’ll keep pushing, training hard, and performing for my club, and hopefully, the coaches will keep on selecting me,” he said.