Aimee Barrett-Theron, a prominent international rugby union referee, has temporarily stepped down from her officiating duties after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The 39-year-old South African, who holds the record for the most capped female international referee with 52 Test matches, disclosed her diagnosis in a statement.
Barrett-Theron expressed optimism about her prognosis, stating, "The good news is that it's treatable, and I'm working with an incredible team of specialists who are fully aligned with the goal of getting me healthy and back on the field in a few months' time." She discovered the disease through a self-examination and urged others to be vigilant about their health.
The Cape Town-born official last officiated a match in charge of South Africa A against Zimbabwe in the previous month. She also participated as part of the officiating team for the Women's Rugby World Cup final between England and Canada last year. In 2024, she gained wider recognition for her composure during an incident at the Under-20 Six Nations.
Mark Alexander, president of the South African Rugby Union, commended Barrett-Theron's resilience, saying, "Aimee has been a resolute and focused trailblazer on the field and we know she will approach her treatment with the same determination and single-mindedness." He added that the union supports her recovery and anticipates her return to officiating.