Rudolph Gerhardus Snyman, born January 29, 1995, in Potchefstroom, South Africa, is a towering lock (2.07m, 131kg) for Leinster Rugby and the Springboks, nicknamed “The Viking” for his distinctive appearance. A product of Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies), Snyman represented the Blue Bulls at youth levels, and in 2013 he earned... Read more
Rudolph Gerhardus Snyman, born January 29, 1995, in Potchefstroom, South Africa, is a towering lock (2.07m, 131kg) for Leinster Rugby and the Springboks, nicknamed “The Viking” for his distinctive appearance. A product of Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies), Snyman represented the Blue Bulls at youth levels, and in 2013 he earned a spot in the South Africa Schools team. In 2014, he debuted professionally with the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup, showcasing his athleticism and lineout prowess.
RG Snyman’s senior career began with the Bulls in Super Rugby in 2015, followed by a stint with Mie Honda Heat in Japan’s Top Challenge League (2017), where a knee injury sidelined him. Returning to Japan post-2019 Rugby World Cup, he joined Munster in Ireland’s United Rugby Championship in 2020, coached by former Springbok Johann van Graan. His Munster debut was cut short by a torn ACL, and recurring injuries, including a re-ruptured ligament and burns from a firepit accident, limited his play. Despite setbacks, he contributed to Munster’s 2022–23 URC title, scoring a try against the Stormers.
Internationally, RG Snyman was pivotal in South Africa’s 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup victories, often as an impact substitute, scoring his first Test try against Italy in 2019. His 2023 return against Australia marked his first Springbok appearance since the 2019 final. In 2024, Snyman joined Leinster, where his dynamic carries and offloads earned high praise, which contributed to the 2024-25 URC title triumph as well as being voted as the Players’ Player of the URC season. A double World Cup winner, Snyman’s resilience and versatility make him a key figure in rugby.
RG Snyman’s insight into the double RWC winning Springboks and how they have become such a successful team, being touted as arguably the best international team ever.
RG Snyman’s view on his partnership with Springbok lock, Eben Etzebeth and becoming the most feared lock pairing in world rugby.
RG Snyman’s view on his time with Munster and the moving to rivals Leinster and what makes Ireland such a special place for him.
RG Snyman’s provides insight into the man off the rugby field and his interests including photography and various other hobbies .