Is Elton Jantjies retired? Here's the answer

Yesterday at 06:26 AM

Back in 2023 it was revealed that former Springbok Elton Jantjies, who is now 34 years old, had allegedly tested positive for the banned substance clenbuterol.

The 46-cap Springbok flyhalf protested his innocence over the adverse finding, but the South African Institute for Drug Free Sport proceeded to hand down a four-year suspension as an appeal never materialised.

Over the latter parts of his once celebrated career, Jantjies had already found himself at the centre of several controversial stories, including allegations of an affair with the Springboks’ team dietician, and this latest suspension always seemed set to bring an ignominious end to his career.

Jantjies has since shared details about his new involvement in Rugga School, a youths rugby programme in Johannesburg, while also continuing to pursue his passion for boxing.

However, when appearing on the popular Behind the Ruck podcast, Jantjies was asked if was retired, and firmly responded: "No!"

During a follow up question, when asked if he expected to return to professional rugby in some capacity, Jantjies also responded emphatically, stating: "200%….soon".

Whether this really materialises seems highly unlikely, but Jantjies did explain what has been keeping him busy.

"I'm very busy in terms of my own individual development. Staying fit and healthy, you know," he stated.

"That is one of my biggest things since my dad, you know, since I was a bit overweight and chubby and stuff like that (as a youngster). So those are things that was instilled in me at that age and I just continued doing it over the years. It keeps me happy and keeps me at peace, you know, being in shape.

"Not that I'm in good shape, I don't know. But you know, just from a psychological point of view as well. I mean, if a lot of guys were in my position, they probably would have shot themselves or committed suicide. Or they would have gone off the rails, you know. But I just keep doing what I'm doing. What makes me healthy and puts me at peace and where everybody smiles."

ELTON JANTJIES WAS PART OF THE 2019 WORLD CUP-WINNING SQUAD

On social media, Jantjies has continued to present a figure of someone who is in high spirits and keeping in shape with the hopes of possibly reigniting a career of some sort.

Not that long ago, he also dropped a bombshell video on his Instagram, hitting out at certain unnamed ‘organisations’, while insisting he will look to fight his way back.

“Just know that I will be back sooner than what you guys think. Through all the research, all the facts and all the evidence. (There have been people) involved, organisations involved, in terms of me being tested for a so-called substance I have never used. I missed my second World Cup, but I’m not negative about it, because I’m preparing myself for much more, something bigger.

“I’m focusing on the next cycle, but obviously there are a few things I need to sort out first, but I’m very positive and truly believe these last few months have been a blessing in disguise. Yes, I want to play rugby and do what I love, but it has created other opportunities and answers for me, both in my personal life and in my rugby career…

“When I get back to the rugby field, there is going to be a different version of Elton Jantjies… Just believe with me that I’ll be back on the park sooner than you think. I’ve got all the right answers, facts and evidence against organisations that aren’t doing it the right way.”

HE PREVIOUSLY RELEASED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT AFTER LEARNING OF HIS BAN

"It with no small amount of shock and sadness that I have to inform you that I received notification, from the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, that a urine sample that I had provided to them in June 2023, returned a positive test for a banned substance, Clenbuterol," read the initial statement from former Springbok star Elton Jantjies.

"I have instructed legal representation to assist me in determining the source of the prohibited substance and I have instructed them to ask for my B Sample to be tested and to launch an inquiry into the possible causes for the positive test.

"At this stage I can say little more about the matter, save that I assure all my supporters that I have not and never will deliberately take a banned substance, and that I will do everything in my power to prove my innocence.

"This is another setback in what has been a very volatile time for me, but I shall overcome this with the support of my family and friends. I know that there will be those out there who doubt my innocence, but I hope to prove you wrong, in due course. For those who support me, thank you."

Do you think there is any way back for the flyhalf?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.

You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news and views.