Springbok fullback Willie le Roux says he hopes to make “more of these special memories” with the Bulls after signing a two-year contract extension on Friday.
The 35-year-old arrived at Loftus Versfeld in 2023 on a three-year deal that would conclude in June 2026.
But after much speculation in recent months about whether he was going to move to an overseas team once more, Le Roux has decided to virtually see out the rest of his career in Pretoria.
He will turn 38 in August 2027, with his new contract now set to end in June 2027. He has also built a house at the Val de Vie estate in Paarl, so has seemingly settled his roots in South Africa now.
“South Africa will always be my home, but my teammates at the Bulls have been a big reason behind the decision to stay,” Le Roux said in a statement on Friday.
“Hopefully, I can continue to guide some of the passionate younger players that are coming through over the next two years.
“This (Loftus Versfeld) is an unreal stadium to play in. It’s always been one of my favourites. You can’t beat the vibe that the supporters bring every week.
“The club is special because of its fans, and just what it means to put on its jersey every week we play.
“Reaching the (URC) Grand Final in my first year with the club and a very special semi-final win at Loftus against a brilliant Leinster side, as well as being able to win the SA Shield, are all among my top highlights thus far.
“Now we look ahead to more of these special memories.
“The next 12 weeks are very important for us because when you’re in knockout stages, there are no second chances. When you’re out, you’re out, but we are ready for the challenge!”
Bulls coach Jake White has praised Le Roux for being a mentor to the younger players in the backline, as well as a kind of coach on the pitch during games.
Of course, the Bulls boss also wants to help Le Roux play in his 100th Springbok Test this year.
Le Roux is currently on 98 caps, and part of that process saw him undergoing surgery to his shoulder and neck area recently, which will keep him sidelined for a few more weeks.
He is not part of the squad currently on tour in Europe ahead of Saturday’s Challenge Cup playoff against Bayonne.
“It is great to be able to have him extend with us. This is what our rugby needs: experienced campaigners to share their IP (intellectual property) with the next crop of players,” White said on Friday.
“Willie has proven to us all – in a short time – just how important he is to what we are trying to achieve.
“I am sure his extension will be welcomed news to everyone, including players, coaches and our loyal fans.”
