Ashwin Willemse has announced his retirement from all rugby with immediate effect.
The 27-year-old winger, a World Cup winner with South Africa in 2007, believes it is time to begin 'the next phase' of his life.
Willemse has been a key player for the Johannesburg-based Lions in this season's Super 14, scoring three tries in the opening six rounds.
He said: 'There are no controversial issues around my decision at all. I love the team, and the guys are exceptional. It was such a breath of fresh air being able to return to the Lions after some time overseas last year, and it has been so exciting.
'I have been able to play the best rugby of my career with the Lions, and I will miss each and every one of my team-mates. The time, however, has come for me to move on to the next phase of my life.'
Willemse previously played for Biarritz in France following the World Cup, in which he gained the last of his 19 caps - he scored four tries in that time - against Tonga.
Golden Lions Rugby Union chief executive Manie Reyneke said: 'Ashwin has made such a huge difference in the team and in his time here, and he will be sadly missed.
'We do appreciate the fact he has taken the team dynamics into consideration, and I wish him all of the very best in his future endeavours.'
