{
  "id": 7117732,
  "title": "Oldest Springbok Deon Fourie now eyes 2027 World Cup: ‘Why not?’",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/13/oldest-springbok-deon-fourie-now-eyes-2027-world-cup-why-not",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-13T14:03:34.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/rugby/oldest-springbok-deon-fourie-40-2027-world-cup/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Deon Fourie, the veteran Springbok forward, has reignited his desire to play for the national team after a string of injuries. After representing the Boks in 16 Tests by the time he turned 40 on September 25, Fourie expressed his eagerness to don the green and gold again. Although he initially thought he might play for a couple more years post the 2023 World Cup, a return to the Springbok setup earlier this year ignited his spirits. However, subsequent injuries, including a career-threatening ACL, fractured tibia, and torn bicep, cast doubt on his future in the sport. Despite that, Fourie was thrilled to return to action during the URC, where he showcased his abilities and earned himself a place on the team. His recent strong performance against the All Blacks further solidified his call-up. Although his wife had plans for his 40th birthday, Fourie's rugby ambitions have disrupted them. While he remains hopeful about playing in the 2027 World Cup, he is taking things one game at a time, ready to surprise his critics and prove them wrong.",
  "summary": "Fourie came back from injury to prove people wrong. Now he wants to stay fit enough to make next year's World Cup.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}