Springboks TOP FIVE highest-paid players

South African rugby players are not only excelling on the field but also filling their bank accounts, especially after the Springboks’ recent Rugby World Cup victory.

Here are the five highest-earning South African rugby stars in 2023, each with their own inspiring stories of achievement and determination.

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The top 5 highest-paid Springboks players

1. Siya Kolisi

Siya Kolisi, the groundbreaking leader who steered the Springboks to 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup triumphs, stands at the pinnacle.

Upon his association with Jay Z’s Roc Nation Sports International, Kolisi made remarkable career advancements, including his recent move to Racing 92 in France.

His net worth, an astounding R35 million, is significantly bolstered by an annual income of R15 million, sourced from endorsements and his role as the Springboks’ captain.

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2. Handre Pollard

Handre Pollard claims the title of the highest-paid South African rugby player, boasting an impressive annual salary of R23 million,according to Briefly News.

Despite an earlier injury that kept him out of the RWC 2023 squad, his kicking skills brought him back into the game, further boosting his bank balance.

3. Cheslin Kolbe

In 2023, Cheslin Kolbe made a notable move to Suntory Sungoliath in the Japan Rugby League One, securing a lucrative R22 million annual salary.

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This decision followed an offer of R55 million from the Stormers in 2022, showing his remarkable value in the rugby world.

4. Faf de Klerk

Faf de Klerk, the scrumhalf sensation, commands an annual salary of R21 million, and when not wearing the green and gold jersey, he plays for the Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan, earning a spot among the world’s highest-paid players with an estimated annual salary of over £900,000.

5. Eben Etzebeth

Eben Etzebeth found riches in France, earning a whopping annual paycheck of R18.34 million during his time at Toulon. He later returned to South Africa, joining the Sharks on a five-year deal.

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How much did they get from the World Cup?

These top earners in South African rugby not only excel on the field but also demonstrate the commercial appeal and global recognition of the sport, reinforcing their status as stars both on and off the pitch.

World Rugby, the organization overseeing the competition, has never publicly disclosed the exact prize money awarded to the champions.

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Nonetheless, reports from 2019 estimated that the prize money for the Rugby World Cup hovered around $400,000.

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