The Springboks have returned to a rapturous welcome at OR Tambo International Airport after winning the Rugby World Cup.
Thousands of South Africans gathered at the airport today to welcome their heroes home.
Siya Kolisi and Rassie Erasmus addressed the nation. Kolisi said the support form South Africans gave them another reason to fight harder. “We knew what was going on back home.”
Erasmus said that ”after the first All Black test match we lost I felt we had a terrible week. We sat down and were honest with each other and spoke about what pressure really was. Pressure in SA isn’t really what people in New Zealand and England have.”
Makazole Mapimpi, the first South African to score a try in a Rugby World Cup final, earlier addressed the media, saying the win is a huge victory and motivation for the youth of the Eastern Cape, especially his home village, Tsholomnqa.
When asked how he felt after scoring the first try, the 29-year-old said: “It’s amazing. I couldn’t believe it all night.”
Mapimpi also thanked South Africa for rallying behind the team during the tournament, saying it was because of this support they were able to come home as world champions.
Click on the links below for some amazing sights at OR Tambo International Airport:
[ON AIR] Siya Kolisi and Rassie Erasmus bring Webb Ellis trophy home. #SpringboksArrival Courtesy #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/nFBPKG6Qkw
— eNCA (@eNCA) November 5, 2019
— Springboks (@Springboks) November 5, 2019
Late President Nelson Mandela said, "Sport is more powerful than government in breaking down racial barriers" & while we still have a long way to go, we must celebrate the leaps we have taken & the hope the #Springboks have given us through this victory. #SpringboksArrival pic.twitter.com/2cO6ej62vh
— Min. Nathi Mthethwa (@NathiMthethwaSA) November 5, 2019
I'm loving this👌South Africa #SpringboksArrival pic.twitter.com/7xIZbZCibk
— Sifiso Ndlozi (@bebeto_switkind) November 5, 2019
This is the culmination of a long journey and we are so proud of you @Springboks. Enjoy some well deserved rest and relaxation. #ChampionsTogether #RWC2019Champions #OfficialAccommodationPartner pic.twitter.com/HdllkxDWcB
— Southern Sun (@SouthernSunGrp) November 5, 2019
Credit: @eNCA, @ssogoSun, @Springboks
