ADVERTISEMENTSouth African rugby has led the tributes from the world sport to Nelson Mandela, who has died age 95.
The Springboks paid a moving video tribute to Mandela, recalling a defining moment in the country’s history. Mandela had been elected president a year before South Africa hosted the 1995 Rugby World Cup. South Africa secured a 15-12 extra-time victory against favourites New Zealand, before Mandela, wearing a Springboks shirt, handed the trophy to captain Francois Pienaar.
South African Rugby Union President Oregan Hoskins said: “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. ‘Madiba’ was a great man of vision, determination and integrity who performed a miracle that amazed the world as much as it amazed his fellow countrymen.”
South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning captain John Smit said: “A man we did not have for long enough, but left a lifelong legacy. Madiba we will never forget.”
South Africa rugby captain Jean de Villiers said: “My lasting memory of Madiba is that of a person who had enormous ability to bring people together.”
International Rugby Board Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “Mr Mandela was a truly remarkable man. I was honoured to be with him during the historic days of Rugby World Cup 1995 and saw his incredible impact on his nation and his people. His wisdom, intelligence and sheer presence was a wonder to behold.”
Football
Brazil soccer great Pele: “Let us all continue his legacy with purpose and passion.”
FIFA President Sepp Blatter said: “It is in deep mourning that I pay my respects to an extraordinary person, probably one of the greatest humanists of our time and a dear friend of mine: Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. When he was honoured and cheered by the crowd at Johannesburg’s Soccer City stadium on 11 July 2010, it was as a man of the people, a man of their hearts, and it was one of the most moving moments I have ever experienced.”
Former England striker Gary Lineker said: “The greatest man on the planet has died. RIP Nelson Mandela.”
Cricket
South Africa test cricket captain Graeme Smith said: “Madiba was an inspiration to the Proteas in the same way that he was to other South African teams. To us he represented so many of the qualities which we as players have looked to adopt in playing for South Africa. He always gave simple but wise advice and this had a big impact on me as leader of the team. His words will stay with me forever as they were not only relevant to cricket, but also to life.”
Cricket South Africa president Chris Nenzani said: “The sporting world will remember him for his tireless efforts at uniting the various sporting codes in order to create a proud and united South African sporting front. Nothing assuredly gave him greater pleasure than being part of the team that brought the FIFA World Cup to South Africa in 2010 and seeing what a wonderful celebration of sport, comradeship and humanity the tournament was. CSA dedicates the current series against the Indian team to the memory of Mandela.”
Boxing
Muhammad Ali said: “He made us realise, we are our brother’s keeper and that our brothers come in all colours. He taught us forgiveness on a grand scale. His was a spirit born free, destined to soar above the rainbows. Today his spirit is soaring through the heavens. He is now forever free.”
Athletics
Jamaican sprinter said: “One of the greatest human beings ever. May your soul Rest in Peace… the world’s greatest fighter.”
Golf
South Africa Ernie Els said: “It is a very sad day. We have lost one of the iconic leaders of our time. You cannot say anything bad about the man. He fought for what he believed in, went to prison for so many years and came out to lead our country up until now. He was just the most amazing person I have ever met. Today will be tough.”