Sport Unites In Tribute To Mandela
Sporting figures across the world have united in praise of Nelson Mandela, who passed away yesterday aged 95. The world-renowned anti-apartheid activist and former president of South Africa had been in critical condition for the last few months and his death has been met by tributes from those inspired by one of history’s most iconic leaders.
As well as being at the forefront of South Africa’s civil rights movement, having spent 27 years in jail before becoming South Africa’s first black president in 1994, Mandela will also be remembered for his belief in the importance and power of sport. He memorably declared: ‘Sport has the power to change the world, it has the power inspire, it has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.’
Some of South Africa’s most celebrated sportsmen and women paid their respects to Mandela, who paved the way for unity in South African sport. For many, Mandela’s support of his nation’s rugby team and the iconic image of him congratulating Francois Pienaar after the Springboks won the 1995 World Cup hosted in South Africa is one of sport’s most momentous occasions.
The current captain of the Springboks, Jean de Villiers, recalled: ‘My lasting memory of Madiba is that of a person who had enormous ability to bring people together. His presence at a Test match just lifted the crowd and energised the team – it is actually hard to describe. Of course, as a sportsman I am so grateful for him for what he did for our country. He inspired South Africans, who for so long were very divided, to peacefully build a united Rainbow Nation.’
Oregan Hoskins, president of SARU, also paid his respects: ‘All of our lives are poorer today at the extinguishing of the great beacon of light and hope that led the way for our country through the transition to democracy.’
The president of the South African Football Association, Danny Jordan, said Mandela inspired the growth of football in the country: ‘Madiba was responsible for lifting the spirits of our football nation from the talks to unite the Association to victory at the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations. He served as the catalyst in our bid for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup.’
David Grevemberg, Chief Executive of Glasgow 2014, commented in a statement: ‘Glasgow 2014 joins millions across the world in mourning the loss of the inspirational and irreplaceable Nelson Mandela. Mr Mandela was a great supporter of the Commonwealth Games movement and a champion of the positive, empowering and connecting power of sport.’
‘He will always hold a special place in Glasgow’s heart and in the spirit of friendship that brings the nations and territories of the Commonwealth here for next year’s Games.’
The tributes from some of the world’s most famous sport stars served to highlight Mandela’s impact not just in South Africa, but around the world.
Muhammad Ali was one of many to pay his respects, saying: ‘What I will remember most about Mr Mandela is that he was a man whose heart, soul and spirit could not be contained or restrained by racial and economic injustices, metal bars or the burden of hate and revenge.’
The sentiments were echoed by golfer Tiger Woods: ‘It’s sad for everyone who got a chance to not only meet him, but I’ve been influenced by him. I got a chance to meet him with my father back in ’98. He invited us to his home, and it was one of the most inspiring times I’ve ever had in my life.’
Six-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt also paid his respects: ‘One of the greatest human beings ever. May your soul rest in peace. The world’s greatest fighter..’
In Adelaide, just hours after the news of Mandela’s death was announced, a minute’s silence was observed before the start of play on day two of the second Ashes Test between Australia and England.
