5 Best Francois Steyn Moments

With Francois Steyn announcing his retirement from rugby, it’s only fair to pay tribute to one of South Africa’s most talented and coveted rugby stars. So, we thought we’d take a look back at some of the most memorable moments from the two-time World Cup winning veteran.

Steyn’s dropgoal against Clermont (2010)

While playing with French giants Racing Metro back in 2010, Francois Steyn showcased why he was considered one of the best drop-goal specialists in the world, smashing a 55-metre drop-goal (that also travelled another 10 metres past the posts) with ease against Claremont. The simplicity that he managed to pull this off, along with the fact he turned his back immediately, not even watching his impressive feat, made it all that much better.

Drop-goal against Cheetahs (2009)

Another impressive drop-goal in the record books, Francois Steyn used his long boot to full advantage during his time at the Sharks, opting to wait in the backfield for return kicks so that he could line up a shot at goal, and with his accuracy and power, he could essentially do this from anywhere. Not only was this one from 55 metres out, but it also had a fair angle on it, only adding to the difficulty.

Steyn’s debut and first try for the Springboks (2007)

Going all the way back to 2006, a 19-year-old Francois Steyn was making his debut for the Springboks against Ireland, in a special 100-year anniversary game between the two sides too. Playing on the wing, Steyn made a great run down the sideline, breaking one tackle and scoring a memorable try for South Africa.

Steyn’s dropgoal against Clermont (2010)

Before some flyhalf cameos in recent years, one of the few times that Francois Steyn started at flyhalf for the Springboks was against Italy all the way back in 2008. Steyn showcased his attacking ability and flair with a brilliant individual try, grubbering through the Italian line and scooping up the ball with one hand to score under the posts.

Steyn opens South Africa’s scoresheet at the World Cup (2011)

Francois Steyn’s return to the Springbok side for the 2011 World Cup was a positive sign, and while the tournament didn’t go the way of South Africa, the team’s first try in the competition against Wales was a memorable one. After receiving a pass out wide, Steyn, who was playing at fullback, went for the corner and ran over James Hook with Shane Williams hanging on his shorts.