Johannesburg, South Africa – Fans turned out in their hundreds at the Mall of Africa in Midrand this week as Springbok legend Eben Etzebeth officially launched his long-awaited memoir, Unlocked, a powerful reflection on one of South Africa’s most decorated rugby careers.
The event formed part of a nationwide launch tour that began in Cape Town, moved to Johannesburg, and concludes today in Durban. Published by Jonathan Ball Publishers, the book has already been named Book of the Month by Exclusive Books, earning a spot among South Africa’s most anticipated sports biographies of 2025.
A Night to Remember in Midrand
The Johannesburg leg of the tour drew an electric atmosphere as fans queued for over an hour and a half to meet the Springbok enforcer, many holding tightly onto their fresh copies of Unlocked for a signature and a photo with their hero. For Etzebeth, the outpouring of support was both humbling and emotional.
“It’s been incredible,” he shared. “Seeing everyone here, families, kids, old teammates, it means a lot. I’m so proud to finally share my story in my own words.”
Perfect Timing After a Golden Era
Speaking at the launch, Etzebeth explained that the timing of the book felt “perfect” after South Africa’s back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs.
“After the World Cup, a company came to me and gave me a good offer for my story, and I thought, why not?” he said. “Two World Cups later, I thought it’s something my children can read one day. It felt like the right time.”
The 33-year-old lock, who has represented South Africa 138 times, said the process of writing the book allowed him to reflect deeply, not only on the golden moments of Springbok rugby, but also on the darker, more challenging chapters that shaped his resilience.
“It was good going back to the olden days, some dark days in Springbok rugby as well, but also the golden ones. It took me through everything, from school level, to the early Bok days, and the highs of recent years. It’s been a special journey.”
Family, Brotherhood, and the Springbok Bond
Throughout Unlocked, the theme of family, both personal and professional, runs strong. Etzebeth spoke fondly about the influence of his late father, his mother, and his brother, as well as the brotherhood formed within the Springbok squad.
“Family has always played a massive role for me,” he said. “Now, as a husband and soon a father of two, it’s even more meaningful. And then there’s the Springbok family, we’ve been through tough times and great times together. That bond is special.”
A touching excerpt from the book features words from Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, one of Etzebeth’s closest friends:
“Eben knows my story, where I’ve come from, my struggles, what I care for, and I know his. He’ll always be one of the greatest Springboks of all time, but to me, he’s also a brother.”
Etzebeth smiled when reflecting on their friendship, saying, “What Siya wrote, that’s all real. We’ve been through so much together since 2018. I always joke that I probably see more of Siya than my wife.”
Unlocking the Man Behind the Jersey
While the book naturally celebrates Etzebeth’s remarkable rugby achievements, from his debut as a young powerhouse to his role in two Rugby World Cup victories, it also opens a rare window into the man behind the fierce competitor.
Readers can expect deeply personal stories from the British & Irish Lions series, World Cup triumphs, and even the defining challenges that tested his character along the way.
As the crowd at the Mall of Africa applauded his reflections, it was clear that Unlocked is not just a rugby memoir, it’s a story of perseverance, leadership, and love for both the game and the country.
A New Chapter Begins
With the Durban leg marking the close of his nationwide launch, Etzebeth says he hopes his story will resonate beyond rugby fans.
“I’ve seen what Sia’s and Rassie’s books have done, how people connect with their stories. Hopefully, mine can do the same, to inspire, to share lessons, and to give fans a glimpse into what it really means to be a Springbok.”
Unlocked is available nationwide and online through Exclusive Books, Jonathan Ball Publishers, and other leading retailers.
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