A relationship that will hopefully last longer than in previous seasons that featured actors
Neels van Jaarsveld and
Francois Jacobs, and singer-songwriter
Brendan Peyper.
None of their relationships from the show are still delivering heat unfortunately.
Neels and Florinda Hearn called it splitsville within a year after their season ended, and Season 2's Francois and Shané Nykie Pretorius lasted longer - two years.
Brendan Peyper and Janae Stander ended before they even started. Season 3 aired in January 2024 and by April Brendan was bleating to
Huisgenoot about how it was over.
That said, we're dealing with a sportsman now - a retired sportsman who's running a business and doesn't like to be away from home.
Maybe he's more of a keeper?
And maybe you're up for the challenge of seeing if you like him enough to keep him?
If so, read on...
Ruan's rugby career took him to several countries. In 2006, Ruan moved to Australia with his family.
He and his twin brother, JP, returned to South Africa in 2008 to complete their matric year at Paarl Gimnasium.
After finishing school, he joined Western Province and later played for teams such as the Brumbies (2012–2016), Toyota Verblitz in Japan (2015–2017), the Queensland Reds (2018–2020) and the Melbourne Rebels (2021–2022).
In 2022, he returned to South Africa and played for the Lions in Johannesburg until 2024.
He now lives in Alberton, where he and JP run their rugby clinic, Eight7. Through this project, they identify and develop young rugby talent, with a special focus on local and underserved communities.
Ruan, who was previously married and is a father of two, is now deeply committed to family, faith and building meaningful relationships. After everything life has thrown at him, he’s ready to give love another chance.
When he’s not busy with rugby or community work, he enjoys simple pleasures like having a braai, beach holidays, playing golf and working out.
He describes his ideal partner as loyal, honest, low-maintenance and not materialistic. Ambition is a key trait for him.
Flash facts about him:
- > He only started playing rugby at 13. Before that, he played soccer.
-> His mom used to call him “Roos”.
-> He literally eats everything, except offal.
-> Ruan’s a homebody and doesn’t enjoy constantly being on the road.
Insights about him from JP:
JP: “Ruan is looking for someone who is easy-going - not someone who always has to be on the go or busy.
In our careers, we were incredibly busy and had very little time for ourselves. So, someone who values time at home is important to him. He’s not looking for a high-maintenance personality - just someone who’s comfortable with the normal, quiet moments.
“If he makes sacrifices in his daily life for someone, then you know it’s serious. He doesn’t give up that part of himself easily. So, if he starts to adapt for someone, it means a lot.
“Ruan is actually a very gentle guy. He puts his guard up, especially in new relationships, but when you get to know him, he’s an incredibly loyal, caring person. I hope people see that side of him in the series - not just the strong rugby player, but the big teddy bear he really is.”
Application must knows
If you'd like to be a bachelorette on the show you need to submit two colour photos to apply: one head and shoulders and one full length.
You also need to submit a video describing yourself. Talk about your family, your friends, why you want to meet Ruan specifically, your dreams and aspirations and your expectations of a relationship.
The video shouldn't be longer than 2 minutes with no music.
You need to be 21 or older.
Applications are open to South African
and Namibian residents.
Closing date: 2 August 2025.
How to apply
You'll find the application form by tapping here:
Op my Eish! 4
Ruan's vibe