Johannes Lodewikus Goosen, born on 27 July 1992, is a South African professional rugby union player known for his versatility. He has played as a fly-half, full-back, and centre for the Bulls and the Blue Bulls, competing in the United Rugby Championship and the Currie Cup.
Goosen's career has been marked by his exceptional talent and adaptability on the field. He gained recognition early on as a member of the South Africa Under 20 team that participated in the 2011 IRB Junior World Championship. Despite a shoulder injury that prevented him from playing in the 2012 tournament, Goosen showcased his skills in Super Rugby, emerging as the leading points scorer in his debut season.
He made his international debut for South Africa on 8 September 2012 against Australia and quickly demonstrated his ability to perform at the highest level. However, a knee injury during a training session in 2013 disrupted his progress, forcing him to miss the remainder of the Test matches that year.
Goosen's career took an unexpected turn when he signed a three-year deal with French Top 14 side Racing 92 for the 2014–15 season. He had a successful stint with Racing, including a Top 14 victory in the 2015–16 season. However, he surprised many by announcing his retirement from rugby in December 2016 to pursue a role as a commercial director in South Africa. Goosen later expressed regret over this decision.
Fortunately, Goosen made a comeback to competitive rugby in 2018 when he joined the Cheetahs in the Pro14 competition. He then signed with Montpellier for the 2019–20 season, making a significant impact and contributing to the team's European Challenge Cup victory in 2021.
On 16 April 2021, Goosen returned to South Africa, signing with the Bulls for the upcoming season. His versatility as a utility back, capable of playing multiple positions, has been a valuable asset throughout his career. Goosen's creativity on attack, defensive capabilities, and accurate goal-kicking make him one of the most exciting prospects in South African rugby.
In terms of honors, Goosen has achieved notable success, including winning the Top 14 with Racing 92 in 2015–16 and the European Rugby Challenge Cup with Montpellier in 2020–21. He was also awarded the URC Gilbert Golden Boot for the 2022/2023 season as recognition for his outstanding performances.
KG(21/05/2023)
Career
 |
Bulls Fly Half |
2021 - present |
 |
Blue Bulls Fly Half |
2021 - present |
 |
Grey College Bloemfontein Fly Half |
2009 - 2010 |
 |
Free State Cheetahs Fly Half |
2011 - 2014 |
 |
Racing 92 Fly Half |
2014 - 2017 |
 |
Cheetahs Fly Half |
2012 - 2018 |
 |
Montpellier Fly Half |
2018 - 2021 |
 |
South Africa A Fly Half |
2022 - 2022 |
 |
South Africa Fly Half |
2012 - 2023 |
