Why Was Roger Federer Rooting for South Africa in the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final vs New Zealand?

• Celebrities flocked to Stade de France to watch the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final
• Roger Federer was spotted in the crowd cheering for South Africa in the final
• The tennis star rejoiced as the Springboks won their fourth RWC title on Saturday

The 2023 Rugby World Cup Final lived up to the hype, with South Africa beating New Zealand 12-11 on Saturday night.

Celebrities and sports stars flocked to Stade de France to watch one of the biggest sporting events of the year.

Roger Federer was in attendance, with the 20-time Grand Slam champion rooting for the Springboks in the epic clash.

Sports Brief looks at the tennis legend’s connection to South Africa.

Federer’s South African roots

Many people know Federer as the Swiss maestro.

Some fans were surprised, however, to see him cheering for South Africa in their Rugby World Cup Final against New Zealand.

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The eight-time Wimbledon champion was seen in the stands wearing a Springboks rugby shirt and scarf.

He attended the match with his mother, wife, and four children.

Celebrations were in order for the family as they watched the Springboks nab their fourth Rugby World Cup title.

Federer’s loyalty lies with the Boks as he has South African blood running through his veins.

His mom Lynette is from South Africa. The Basel-born star has dual Swiss and South African citizenship.

The 42-year-old is a huge fan of the South African national rugby team. He has sent private messages to the Springboks before big games in the past years, including the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

South Africa won their last six matches in that tournament to win the title, including a 32-12 victory over England in the final.

Federer’s charity work in Southern Africa

Federer, who retired from tennis last year, has been spending a lot of time in Southern Africa lately for his charitable work through his Roger Federer Foundation.

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He visited Lesotho last May and met with high-level government officials there. The goal of his trip was to urge officials to scale up measures for early learning for children.

Federer’s Foundation has been working to enable local communities and parents in Southern Africa to provide their kids with the opportunity for a good education.

Springboks fans celebrate after RWC win

Sports Brief recently reported on South Africans celebrating the Springboks' win over the All Blacks.

They trooped into the streets after South Africa claimed a thrilling one-point win over New Zealand in the final.

The Boks had to dig deep against 14-man New Zealand to claim their fourth title.