Rugby World Cup: President Cyril Ramaphosa Releases Statement As Springboks Defeat New Zealand

Rugby World Cup: President Cyril Ramaphosa Releases Statement As Springboks Defeat New Zealand

Babajide Orevba
October 29, 2023 at 7:29 AM
  • Cyril Ramaphosa is excited following South Africa’s triumph at the 2023 Rugby World Cup
  • The president was in the stands in the company of top officials, including the Minister of Sports Zizi
  • He stated that the victory is extraordinary and inspiring, adding that it will aid national development

President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the Springboks following their win over New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday.

Ramaphosa, who was in the stands in Paris, was stunned by the performance of his countrymen in the highly entertaining encounter.

He described the historic victory as extraordinary and inspiring, saying it will aid national development.

Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africa, Springboks, Rugby World Cup
Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Springboks for winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Photo: Dan Mullan
Source: Getty Images

Handre Pollard hit four penalties in the encounter to help South Africa to a 12-11 victory over 14-man New Zealand.

Ramaphosa was spotted in the company of top officials, including the Minister of Sports Zizi and other dignitaries.

Having defended the title, Springboks have now won the title on four occasions, a feat no team has achieved.

The President said in an official statement:

“Stronger Together is a belief that came to life for Springbok supporters all around our country and continent, and the world.
“Sport has the power to transform the lives and lift the spirits of entire nations.
“Tonight, Siya Kolisi and the 2023 World Cup champions have gifted us an extraordinary, inspired and inspiring national achievement that lifts our hearts and hoists our Flag even higher.”

Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who is a minister in the president’s office, said this win confirms South Africa’s highest standing in world rugby.

According to her, victory on the night symbolises the resolve, resilience, and unbreakable spirit of South Africans.

Back home, South Africans have trooped into the streets after Springboks defeated their counterparts from New Zealand to retain the Rugby World Cup title.

Thousands of South Africans have taken to the streets to celebrate the famous victory as they were spotted singing in unison, chanting and dancing.

Mzansi wants public holiday

Sports Brief earlier reported that South Africans are celebrating their epic victory over New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final, as the Springboks became the first team to win the trophy four times.

Springbok supporters are calling on the president to make Monday, October 30 a public holiday.

Ramaphosa previously joked that he would make the following day a public holiday if the Boks won.

Authors
Babajide Orevba photo
Babajide Orevba
Babajide Orevba is a CAF accredited Nigerian journalist and HOD of the Local Desk with over 10 years of experience in media landscape.He studied NCE Political Science/Social Studies, AOCOED.
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Rugby World CupSouth African Rugby Union (SARU)South Africa