Who Is Joost van der Westhuizen? Age, Biography and Wiki
Joost van der Westhuizen, born on February 20, 1971, was a prominent South African rugby union player who left an indelible mark on the sport. He played as a scrum-half and was known for his remarkable speed, tactical acumen, and leadership on the field. As of 2025, he would have celebrated 54 years of life if he were still with us; unfortunately, he passed away on February 6, 2017, leaving behind a legacy cherished by rugby fans worldwide.
| Occupation | Sports |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 20, 1971 |
| Age | 45 Years |
| Birth Place | Pretoria, South Africa |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | South Africa |
| Date of death | 6 February, 2017 |
| Died Place | Johannesburg, South Africa |
Popularity
Joost van der Westhuizen's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
During his playing days, Joost stood approximately 1.80 meters (5 feet 11 inches) tall and weighed around 85 kilograms (187 pounds). His athletic build and physical fitness were significant assets in his successful rugby career, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level.
In May 2011, van der Westhuizen's publicist confirmed that he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease. Some weakness had first been noticed in his right arm near the end of 2008, but he had put this down to the aftereffects of an old rugby injury.
A few months later, Dr Kelbrick, his personal doctor and a family friend, noticed his right arm weakness and arranged for tests. At that time, Van der Westhuizen was given between two and five years to live.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Joost van der Westhuizen was married to the well-known South African model and television personality, Amor Vittone. The couple was together from 1998 until their separation in 2016. They had two children: a son, Jordan, and a daughter, Celeste. Despite their separation, Amor remained a steadfast source of support for Joost, particularly during his illness. Following his passing, Amor has spoken fondly of her late husband, highlighting their shared parenting and mutual respect.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Joost van der Westhuizen was reported to have a net worth in the vicinity of $5 million. His earnings came not only from his illustrious rugby career but also from various endorsements, television appearances, and commercial ventures throughout his life. He was regarded as one of the most marketable athletes in South Africa, thanks to his popularity and performance on the field.
Career, Business and Investments
Joost’s rugby career took off in the early 1990s, leading to his selection for the Springboks, the national rugby team of South Africa. He played a pivotal role in the team’s victory during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, which was a historic moment for the nation post-apartheid. After retiring from professional rugby, Joost engaged in various business ventures, including endorsements and rugby coaching.
He was also involved in philanthropic work, particularly in raising awareness for motor neuron disease, a condition he battled in the years before his passing. Joost's legacy continues to influence aspiring rugby players and sports enthusiasts worldwide.
Van der Westhuizen spent his entire provincial career with South African side the Blue Bulls, from 1993 until 2003, whereupon he retired from playing rugby. He played Super 12 for Northern Bulls (later renamed the Bulls) from the competition's inception in 1996 until his retirement in 2003.
Social Network
Joost van der Westhuizen was active on various social media platforms throughout his life, where he connected with his fans and shared insights about his life, career, and philanthropy. Posthumously, his family continues to celebrate his legacy online, engaging with a community that honors his contributions to sport.
Education
Joost attended primary and secondary school in Pretoria, where he became increasingly involved in sports, particularly rugby. He later enrolled at the University of Pretoria, where he continued to pursue his passion for rugby. His educational background, combined with his determination and talent, played a crucial role in shaping him into the outstanding athlete he became.
In conclusion, Joost van der Westhuizen remains a celebrated figure in South African rugby history, remembered not only for his achievements on the field but also for his resilience and commitment to raising awareness about critical health issues. His legacy endures in the hearts of many, making him a sports icon beyond his years.
Joost van der Westhuizen (20 February 1971 – 6 February 2017) was a South African professional rugby union player who made 89 appearances in test matches for the national team, scoring 38 tries. He mostly played as a scrum-half and participated in three Rugby World Cups, most notably in the 1995 tournament, which was won by South Africa.
He is widely regarded as one of the greatest scrumhalves in the history of this sport.
