The 15 Highest-Paid South African Rugby Players – Ranked from Lowest to Highest

March 18, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

South Africa has long been a powerhouse in international rugby, producing some of the best players in the world. Many of these stars have secured lucrative contracts with top clubs across Europe, Japan, and beyond. While South African rugby players may not always earn as much as their counterparts in other major leagues, several Springboks have managed to land impressive deals thanks to their skill, leadership, and impact on the field.

We’ve taken a closer look at the highest-paid South African rugby players and ranked them from lowest to highest based on their earnings.

15. Elton Jantjies – £3,600 per week / £190,000 per year

Elton Jantjies, a talented fly-half, has had a career spanning multiple clubs, including the Lions and a stint in France with Agen. Despite off-field controversies, he remains a sought-after playmaker known for his kicking ability and game management.

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14. Willie le Roux – £3,800 per week / £200,000 per year

A creative fullback, Willie le Roux has played for clubs in Japan, South Africa, and England. His vision and ability to create space for his teammates make him a valuable asset, particularly in high-pressure matches.

13. Malcolm Marx – £3,900 per week / £210,000 per year

One of the world’s best hookers, Malcolm Marx has excelled in both Super Rugby and Japan’s Rugby League One. Known for his physicality and breakdown skills, he remains a key figure for the Springboks and his club, Kubota Spears.

12. Duane Vermeulen – £4,100 per week / £220,000 per year

A veteran of South African rugby, Duane Vermeulen has played for the Bulls, Toulon, and Ulster. His leadership, experience, and power in the forward pack have kept him among the top earners despite his age.

11. Frans Malherbe – £4,300 per week / £230,000 per year

A dominant tighthead prop, Frans Malherbe has been a cornerstone of the Springboks’ scrum. His strength and technique in the set-piece make him one of the most reliable front-rowers in world rugby.

10. Lukhanyo Am – £4,600 per week / £240,000 per year

Regarded as one of the best centers in world rugby, Lukhanyo Am is a defensive mastermind and a key playmaker for the Springboks. His performances for the Sharks and South Africa have earned him recognition and a strong contract.

9. Steven Kitshoff – £4,900 per week / £255,000 per year

The experienced loosehead prop has had an illustrious career with the Stormers and Ulster. His scrummaging power and work rate make him one of the top earners among South African forwards.

8. Pieter-Steph du Toit – £5,200 per week / £270,000 per year

A former World Rugby Player of the Year, Pieter-Steph du Toit is a relentless blindside flanker with immense tackling ability and work rate. His move to Toyota Verblitz in Japan has added to his financial success.

7. Makazole Mapimpi – £5,700 per week / £295,000 per year

Mapimpi made history as the first South African to score a try in a Rugby World Cup final. His speed and finishing ability have made him one of the most lethal wingers in world rugby, securing him a strong contract with the Sharks.

6. Damian de Allende – £6,500 per week / £335,000 per year

A powerful inside center, Damian de Allende has been a key figure in South Africa’s backline. His stints in Japan and Europe have made him one of the highest-paid South African backs in the game today.

5. Eben Etzebeth – £8,600 per week / £445,000 per year

One of the toughest locks in world rugby, Eben Etzebeth is a physical enforcer in the forward pack. His time with Toulon and the Sharks has cemented his status as one of the most well-paid second-rowers globally.

4. Handré Pollard – £9,000 per week / £470,000 per year

handre pollard — Victor Velter / Shutterstock.com

A calm and composed fly-half, Handré Pollard is known for his goal-kicking accuracy and game control. His contract with Leicester Tigers in England places him among the top-earning South African rugby players.

3. Faf de Klerk – £13,300 per week / £690,000 per year

The energetic scrum-half is a game-changer with his quick service and defensive tenacity. His move to Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan has boosted his earnings significantly, making him one of the wealthiest Springboks.

2. Cheslin Kolbe – £13,800 per week / £720,000 per year

A dazzling winger with incredible footwork, Cheslin Kolbe has been a fan favorite in France and Japan. His move to Tokyo Sungoliath secured him one of the highest salaries among South African players.

1. Siya Kolisi – £15,000 per week / £780,000 per year

As the first black captain to lead South Africa to a Rugby World Cup victory, Siya Kolisi is not just a player but a national icon. His leadership, powerful performances, and endorsements make him the highest-paid South African rugby player today.