Danie se Dinge: How South Africa’s sporting triumphs in 2024 inspired hope

IN MY COLUMN last week, we looked at how some of our country’s athletes – especially the rugby teams – have showcased their exceptional talent and resilience across the global stage.

We spoke about how South Africa’s sporting achievements captured the world’s attention and brought the nation together in ways that words cannot fully express.

Back then I said that I had more to say. So, seeing as we are all together again, let me say it now.

Bafana Bafana on the rise

Football has always been one of South Africa’s most beloved sports, and 2024 has been a year of remarkable achievements for Bafana Bafana.

The national team showed resilience in their AFCON 2024 campaign, when they finished third after their penalty shootout win over DR Congo. They followed this up with an impressive run in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, ending top of their group.

Wins over Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan left no doubts about their tactical maturity and the emerging talents of players like Thapelo Morena and Patrick Maswanganyi – to name just two.

What’s striking about Bafana Bafana’s rise is the belief and unity it has instilled in the country. South Africans from all backgrounds are behind the team, and every victory feels like a personal triumph for the nation.

When the team takes to the pitch, it is not just about football – it’s about national pride, about a collective dream of success, and about showing the world the strength of South Africa.

The Proteas show promise

OK, it has not been a smooth and uneventful ride, but 2024 has been a landmark year for South African cricket, with the Proteas securing significant victories across multiple formats.

Their performance in the T20 World Cup, where they reached their first-ever final, is particularly noteworthy. The team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, and players like Marco Jansen, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Kagiso Rabada delivered exceptional performances that captivated fans.

In ODIs, South Africa’s dominant form continued, with outstanding contributions from Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen. Even in the Test arena, where the Proteas have been focusing on rebuilding, the team has shown promise.

The beauty of the Proteas journey is that it has not been easy. But the team has shown a fighting spirit and determination to do better – a fantastic lesson for a country where things are not easy, and a fighting spirit is necessary to navigate the various societal challenges.

Cricket, much like rugby and football, has a unique ability to unite South Africa. The Proteas’ success in 2024 has reignited the country’s passion for the sport, reminding fans of South Africa’s rich cricketing history and its capacity for greatness. Each victory brings the nation closer together, and young fans have a new crop of heroes to look up to, and maybe join on the field one day … who knows?

Dricus du Plessis – a champion for all

Please forgive me for overlooking other sports talent, but I have to go here.

Perhaps no individual athlete has united South Africa in 2024 quite like Dricus du Plessis. His victory in securing the UFC middleweight title was a historic moment not just for South African MMA but for the nation as a whole.

Du Plessis’ journey to the top of the UFC was a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience. His catchphrase, “Hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie”, serves as a rallying call to all South Africans.

His victory brought South Africans from all walks of life together in celebration, proving that, no matter the sport, South Africa is capable of greatness on the world stage.

Du Plessis’ success transcends sport; it represents the spirit of South Africa. His rise to UFC champion was a symbol of hard work, perseverance, and a belief that anything is possible, no matter the odds.

His victory gave South Africans something to rally behind – an athlete who embodies the nation’s collective will to succeed, and, as I said earlier, he reminded the rest of the world that “Hulle weet wat ons weet nie”!

Grassroots and the future of SA sport

While 2024 has been a year of triumph for South African sport, it is important to remember that these successes are built on a foundation that starts at the grassroots level.

School sports in South Africa are the breeding ground for future champions. It is on the dusty fields of soccer pitches and local school competitions where young talent first emerges. Where youngsters dream of one day playing for the Springboks, Bafana Bafana, or the Proteas.

The importance of nurturing talent at the grassroots level cannot be overstated. It is here that the next generation of South African sporting stars is born. It is here that young athletes – often with little more than passion and drive – begin their journey to greatness.

This was the case for Emile Witbooi, who at the age of just 16 is on the radar of several big English Premier League clubs.

The success of South African sport in 2024 would not be possible without this vital foundation, and it is my opinion that a lot more attention and resources should be poured into the foundations to ensure our future sporting success.

Yes, 2024 has been a year of remarkable achievements for South African sport. From the Springboks’ triumphs on the rugby field to Du Plessis’ historic UFC title and the rising stars of Bafana Bafana, the Proteas, and the Springbok Women, South Africa has proven that it is a sporting powerhouse.

But more than just victories, these achievements have brought the country together, united in pride and hope for the future.

South African sport in 2024 is not just a reflection of our athletic talent; it is a symbol of our nation’s spirit. It’s a reminder that, no matter the challenges we face, we are capable of greatness when we stand together.

As we look ahead to the future, there is no doubt that South Africa’s sporting legacy will continue to grow, inspiring future generations to chase their dreams and achieve their own moments of glory – on and off the field.