Singing the national anthem ahead of the game against the All Blacks was extra special for Deon Fourie, who has made history as the oldest Springbok to play in a test match.

The 39-year-old made another appearance in the Greatest Rivarly series after being selected late by coach Rassie Erasmus. The Boks beat their New Zealand visitors 29-24 at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.

Fourie will turn 40 years old on 25 September, days after the final clash between the rugby rivals, set to take place in Baltimore, Maryland, next weekend.

DEON FOURIE CRIES DURING NATIONAL ANTHEM

In scenes from the South African national anthem, performed by signer Belinda Davids, Deon Fourie was seen with tears streaming down his face.

It was no doubt a proud moment for the 39-year-old, who is the oldest Springbok to ever play in a test match.

Watch the emotional moment below…

𝐍𝐤𝐨𝐬𝐢 𝐒𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐥' 𝐢𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐚 🇿🇦🎶

A riveting rendition of South Africa's national anthem at FNB Stadium 🥹❤️

📺 Stream #RugbysGreatestRivalry on DStv: https://t.co/0P0NNhnwKw pic.twitter.com/RPeMtB10HE

— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) September 5, 2026

Days before, Deon Fourie reflected on being called up to join the national team in the Greatest Rivalry series between the Springboks and All Blacks.

He told SuperSport: “It’s a privilege to wear the green and gold again. I’m so thankful for the support. I was nervous about my age, but I’m glad I pulled through.

COULD HE PLAY IN THE RUGBY WORLD CUP?

The 2027 Rugby World Cup will take place in Australia between 1 October and 13 November.

At that time, Deon Fourie will be 41 years old and, if still in the mix, will be not only South Africa’s but the world’s oldest player at the tournament.

He would surpass the likes of Springboks Victor Matfield, then 38, who played at the 2015 World Cup, and Schalk Brits, also 38, who played at the 2019 tournament.

Overall, the oldest player was 40-year-old Uruguayian Diego Ormaechea, who played in the 1999 World Cup.