South Africa and the rugby world bid farewell to Joost van der Westhuizen on 6 February 2017, when the legendary Springbok scrum-half passed away at the age of 45 after a courageous battle with motor neurone disease. His career, marked by exceptional skill, leadership, and resilience, earned him a place among rugby’s all-time greats.
Known for his fierce competitiveness on the field and unwavering spirit off it, Joost left behind a legacy not only as a world champion but also as an advocate for those living with motor neurone disease through his charity, the J9 Foundation.
Joost van der Westhuizen Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joost Heystek van der Westhuizen |
| Date of Birth | 20 February 1971 |
| Date of Passing | 6 February 2017 |
| Age | 45 years |
| Nationality | South African |
| Profession | Professional Rugby Union Player |
| Position | Scrum-half |
| Height | 1.85 m |
| Spouse | Amor Vittone |
| Children | Two |
| Teams Played For | Blue Bulls, Bulls (Super Rugby), South Africa (Springboks) |
| Cause of Passing | Motor neurone disease |
| Notable Achievements | Rugby World Cup champion (1995), Tri-Nations champion (1998), 89 test caps, 38 tries |
| Hall of Fame | International Rugby Hall of Fame (2007), World Rugby Hall of Fame |
Rugby Career and Achievements
Joost made his Springbok debut in 1993 and quickly became a fixture in the national team. Known for his sharp passes, quick thinking, and relentless tackling, he revolutionized the scrum-half position.
He represented South Africa in three Rugby World Cups, with the pinnacle being the 1995 tournament — a historic victory that united the nation. Joost was instrumental in the Springboks’ triumph, making crucial plays in key matches.
Over his career, he earned 89 test caps and scored 38 tries, making him one of the most prolific try-scoring scrum-halves in rugby history. Domestically, he played for the Blue Bulls and the Bulls in Super 12, winning Currie Cup titles in 1998 and 2002.
Personal Life and Family
Off the field, Joost married South African singer Amor Vittone, and together they had two children. While their marriage faced challenges, the couple shared a mutual love for their family and remained united in supporting their children.
Joost’s family, including his parents, siblings, and children, stood by him during his illness, providing strength and comfort throughout his battle with motor neurone disease.
Illness and Advocacy Work
In 2011, Joost publicly announced that he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, a progressive neurological condition. Despite the challenges, he used his platform to raise awareness and funds for research through the J9 Foundation, named after his jersey number.
His determination to keep fighting, even as the disease took away his mobility and speech, inspired people around the world. Joost became a symbol of courage, showing that strength is not only measured by physical power but also by resilience and hope.
Cause of Passing
Joost van der Westhuizen passed away from complications related to motor neurone disease on 6 February 2017. His de@th marked the end of a long and public battle, during which he remained a source of inspiration to fans, players, and anyone facing adversity.
FAQs
Q: How tall was Joost van der Westhuizen?
A: He was 1.85 meters tall.
Q: Who was Joost van der Westhuizen’s wife?
A: He was married to South African singer Amor Vittone.
Q: How many children did Joost have?
A: Joost had two children with Amor Vittone.
Q: What was the cause of Joost van der Westhuizen’s de@th?
A: He passed away from motor neurone disease.
Q: What is Joost van der Westhuizen’s net worth?
A: While not officially disclosed, estimates range from $10,000 to $23,000 at the time of his passing.
Conclusion
Joost van der Westhuizen’s life story is one of brilliance, perseverance, and impact. As a player, he was among the best the sport has ever seen. As a man facing one of life’s toughest challenges, he showed unmatched bravery.
Though he is no longer with us, his contributions to rugby and his advocacy for motor neurone disease awareness will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this biography is based on publicly available sources and is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, some details may be subject to change or interpretation.
