‘It Was a Shock’ – Teen Star Markus Muller Opens Up on Rapid Rise to Springbok Camp

Teenage sensation Markus Muller has enjoyed a remarkable rise in South African rugby. 

Having only completed matric last year, the talented youngster has already featured for the Stormers, played in warm-up matches for the Junior Springboks, and now finds himself training alongside the Springboks at a national alignment camp.

Reflecting on his whirlwind journey, Muller admitted that the past year has exceeded all expectations.

“It has been a rollercoaster of a year for me. Almost every other Sunday, I find out where I am going to train the following week. I am loving it so far, and it has been an unbelievable experience. I am really thankful to be in the position where I am," Muller told SportsBoom.co.za in an exclusive interview. 

The Unexpected Call-Up

Muller was among a select group of Junior Springboks invited to attend the latest Springbok Alignment Camp. 

The invitation came while the South African Under-20 side was touring Georgia for a two-match series against the Georgian Under-20 team.

The youngster recalls being caught completely off guard by the news.

“It was a shock, actually. We were in Georgia, me, Riley Norton, Sethu Mnebelele and Kai Pratt, and we were added to a WhatsApp group called ‘The Springbok Alignment Camp Group’. I’m really excited to be here with the Springboks, and it happened all of a sudden.”

The opportunity has allowed Muller to learn from some of the best players and coaches in the country.

“It’s been a great experience being in camp. You learn so much from the people around you who want to help you grow. For me, I just want to take in as much as I can, ask questions where I don’t understand, and try to align myself with what the Springboks want this year.”

Despite still being at the beginning of his professional journey, Muller is not afraid to dream big.

“It would be a dream come true if I managed to get a Springbok cap. I’m really thankful, and for me it’s all in God’s hands.”

Learning from Rassie

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has built a reputation for being direct and transparent with his players, and Muller says his experience has been no different.

“He says exactly what he expects from you, what to do and what to work on. He also talks about the type of culture the Springboks have and want to create. You get a good idea of who he wants you to be as a person and as a player.”

Staying Grounded Amid the Hype

Muller has been regarded as one of South Africa’s brightest rugby prospects since his schoolboy days. 

Junior Springbok coach Kevin Foote has acknowledged the excitement surrounding the young star, suggesting that much of the praise is well deserved.

However, Muller remains determined to keep his feet firmly on the ground.

“With the media and all the hype, I try to remain grounded as much as possible. I am lucky to have good people around me to keep me grounded and humble," he concluded.