AB de Villiers’ wife Danielle has paid a heartfelt tribute to her husband after the Proteas star announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday, November 19.
Having retired from international cricket in 2018, De Villiers contributed for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League (BBL) and featured in several other franchise tournaments around the world.
But now, the former South Africa skipper has finally decided to hang his boots from professional cricket and won’t be seen in action anywhere.
Taking to Instagram, Danielle wrote: “My love, where do I even begin? It has been an honour and a privilege to be your partner and watch you as you journeyed through your incredibly successful career over the past 14 years. Your love and passion for the game is matchless.
“Your insane talent… Well, there I really am at a loss for words. You are untouchable. Through all the highs and praise you’ve received, you have always remained the most humble human being that I know,” she added.
“And through all the lows and disappointments (and there were many) you never gave up. You always looked up, stood up and fought back stronger. You can be at peace now knowing that all you ever gave was your EVERYTHING. I saw it first-hand.”
Danielle also lauded the Proteas batting legend for inspiring people through his cricket and demeanour.
“You have impacted so many lives in the most inspiring way. Through cricket, but also because of the man that you are and your faith that radiates in everything you do,” she wrote.
Danielle was also confident of AB’s success as a husband post-retirement and pledged her full support to the Protea-born superstar.
“I would have supported you for 20 more years if that’s what your heart wanted, but now I will continue to stand by your side and hold your hand as we embark upon our next chapter. I know you will find great success in everything you take on!,” she concluded.
During his illustrious career, De Villiers played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs, and 78 T20Is for South Africa, amassing almost 20,000 runs with 47 tons and 109 half-centuries.
