Meyer has announced that he has retired from the sport at the age of 36 following a career that started at the Pumas in Nelspruit back in 2010, whereafter the majority of his career was spent in Bloemfontein.

The Pietermaritzburg-born Meyer also played for the Lions, Sharks, and Griquas before settling at the Cheetahs where he played in over 100 games between 2015 and 2021.

Meyer’s versatility and speed also led to him playing on the wing from time to time.

Tian Meyer with the Sir Donald Currie Trophy after leading the Free State to their sixth title. Photo: SA Rugby

In 2019, Meyer achieved his greatest feat as a player when he captained the Cheetahs to the sixth Currie Cup title after beating the Lions 31-28 at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Earlier in the week, Meyer announced that he would be hanging up his boots after an illustrious career of more than 14 years.

‘God has given me a long and blessed rugby career’

“The time has come for me to retire from playing the sport I love. God has given me a long and blessed rugby career,” said Meyer.

“It has been an honour and a blessing to have played with and against so many friends and great players. Rugby has given me so many opportunities outside of the game from scholarships, studies, travelling the world, meeting people and having friendships with many that will last a lifetime. All this while being able to provide for my family.

Tian Meyer. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I will forever be grateful to all the people who have been there on this journey – the coaches who have impacted my life on and off the field; teammates who were not just colleagues but good friends; my family who always cheered and supported me no matter what; my parents who sacrificed so much and were there for me from the very beginning.

“And lastly my amazing wife, Samantha – you have been so supportive and stood by me through it all. No words can express what you have meant to me on this journey. I look forward to the next chapter that God has planned for my family and me.”

After leaving the Cheetahs, Meyer signed with the Japanese Top League club, NTT Red Hurricanes, on a short-term deal. In total Meyer played in 122 games for the Cheetahs. 

Last week, it was also confirmed that the 28-year-old flyhalf/inside centre, Reinhardt Fortuin, retired from the sport due to a persistent back injury. Last year the former Maties star made his international debut for the Netherlands.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg