2024 was undeniably a remarkable year for South Africa’s top athletes across various sports. From the Bafana Bafana’s bronze win at the Africa Cup of Nations to the Springboks’ dominance in rugby and the Proteas’ impressive performances in cricket, the year was filled with memorable moments that brought joy and pride to the nation.
One of the standout achievements in football was Bafana Bafana’s unexpected run to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, where they clinched a bronze medal by defeating DR Congo. This marked a significant milestone for the team, reaffirming South Africa’s football prowess on the continent.
In cricket, both the Proteas men and women made it to the T20 World Cup finals. Led by Aiden Markram, the men’s team narrowly missed out on their first major global title, while Laura Wolvaardt’s women’s team also fell short in the final against New Zealand. However, their performances brought immense pride to the country.
The Springboks had an outstanding year in rugby, winning the Rugby Championship title and closing out the season with a clean sweep over Northern Hemisphere opposition. Players like Pieter-Steph du Toit, Cheslin Kolbe, and Eben Etzebeth shone brightly, with Du Toit being crowned World Rugby Player of the Year for the second time.
In other sports, athletes like Tatjana Smith, Bayanda Walaza, and Jo-Ane van Dyk excelled at the Olympics, bringing home medals and making the nation proud. Mixed martial artist Dricus du Plessis also made waves by winning the UFC middleweight title and defending it against top contenders.
Overall, 2024 was a year of triumphs and achievements for South African athletes across various disciplines. Their dedication, hard work, and talent shone brightly on the international stage, showcasing the country’s sporting prowess and resilience.
