Faf de Klerk Explains Family-Driven Return On For The Love Of Rugby South Africa

Springbok scrumhalf joins Steven Kitshoff and Trevor Nyakane for one of his most candid interviews since returning to South African rugby.

Johannesburg, South Africa – Fresh off his return to South African rugby, Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk has shared the personal story behind one of the biggest decisions of his career in the latest episode of For The Love of Rugby South Africa.

Joining fellow Rugby World Cup winners Steven Kitshoff and Trevor Nyakane, De Klerk gives fans an honest and insightful look into why returning home was about far more than rugby.

Family First

Speaking candidly on the podcast, De Klerk revealed that family was the driving force behind his decision to leave Japan and return to South Africa.

"At the end of the day, family comes first. Being back home and closer to them was a massive factor in my decision."

A Conversation Beyond the Game

The episode explores far more than De Klerk's return, offering rugby fans a masterclass in the modern game as three of South Africa's most experienced internationals unpack how rugby continues to evolve.

The trio discuss why today's game places greater emphasis on aerial contests, transition attack and exploiting unstructured play, while reflecting on how the professional game has changed since they first broke into international rugby.

De Klerk also reflects on the experiences that shaped him as a player, explaining how moving schools early in his career challenged him to grow, while reinforcing that hard work, not natural talent alone, was responsible for developing many of the skills for which he has become renowned, including his trademark box kicking.

The conversation also explores the value of South African players competing overseas, with all three Springboks agreeing that playing abroad exposes athletes to different cultures, coaching philosophies and styles of rugby, ultimately producing more complete professionals.

Still Driven by the Springbok Dream

Despite returning home, De Klerk made it clear that his ambitions remain as high as ever.

Still driven by the pursuit of excellence, the double Rugby World Cup winner says his immediate focus is performing consistently for his club while earning another opportunity to wear the green and gold, with the possibility of competing for a third Rugby World Cup title continuing to motivate him.

Hosts Reflect on the Episode

Steven Kitshoff said the conversation perfectly reflects what For The Love of Rugby South Africa aims to offer fans.

"Supporters see what happens on a Saturday, but they rarely get to hear why players make the decisions they do or what drives them behind the scenes. Conversations like this give people a genuine understanding of the person behind the player."

Trevor Nyakane added:

"Faf has achieved so much in the game, but what stood out most was his honesty. These are the conversations rugby supporters really want to hear, real stories from people who have experienced the highest level of the game."

About For The Love of Rugby South Africa

Since launching earlier this year, For The Love of Rugby South Africa has established itself as one of the country's fastest-growing rugby podcasts, providing supporters with exclusive access to Springbok players, coaches and personalities through authentic, long-form conversations that go beyond the match itself.

Hosted by Steven Kitshoff and Trevor Nyakane, the podcast has become a destination for rugby fans looking for expert analysis, behind-the-scenes stories and the personalities shaping South African rugby.

Watch the Latest Episode

The latest episode featuring Faf de Klerk is now available on YouTube, Spotify and all major podcast platforms.