Carlü Sadie has reflected on the life-threatening neck injury that left him just 2mm from death, and the remarkable journey that has led to a Springbok alignment call-up.
In an interview with Rapport, the Bordeaux Bègles tighthead prop recalled how just over a year ago he was told his life – not just his rugby career – hung in the balance.
“It was a very difficult period. You’re scared and uncertain about the future. I wasn’t sure if I would ever play rugby again,” Sadie said.
The injury occurred in a scrum against Lyon in January 2025. Initially feeling no pain, Sadie continued playing before hearing repeated “cracking” sounds in his neck.
“It felt like my head was loose, like a bottle cap that wasn’t tight,” the 28-year-old recalled.
Scans later revealed severe damage between his C1 and C2 vertebrae. A specialist warned him that if his neck had bent just 2mm further, he would have died. It was a similar injury to the one that ended Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff’s career.
Sadie underwent complex surgery, with doctors warning there was only a 50/50 chance of survival.
The surgery involved taking a piece of bone from his hip and then fixing two screws in his neck with the piece of bone serving as additional reinforcement.
His recovery proved equally demanding, involving months of intensive rehabilitation under renowned physiotherapist Luc Senegas.
MORE: Two new faces for Bok camp, veterans recalled
Sadie returned to action in August and has since made 22 appearances for Bordeaux Bègles and this past week received a call-up to the Springbok’s virtual alignment camp for overseas based players.
“To be invited to the first Bok camp now is a dream come true. It feels unreal. It’s just grace,” the former Bellville High pupil said. “All glory to our Heavenly Father.”
Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images
The post Carlü’s miracle road to Bok camp appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Carlü Sadie has reflected on the life-threatening neck injury that left him just 2mm from death.
The post Carlü’s miracle road to Bok camp appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
