South African President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the Springboks’ record-breaking World Cup triumphs during his recent visit to Japan.
The 72-year-old leader wrapped up his trip by attending the Tokyo International Conference on African Development over the weekend.
Ramaphosa Brags About World Champions
In several TikTok clips shared by Athi Geleba, the Head of Digital Communications in the Presidency, Ramaphosa proudly spoke about the Springboks to Japanese dignitaries.
He also gifted multiple Springbok supporter T-shirts during his engagements.
Japan has shown increasing interest in rugby, especially since hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Gift of Remembrance from the Springboks
In one clip, Ramaphosa held up a supporter shirt and said to an official:
“This is a token of remembrance from the Springboks… and you know, of course, we are the World Champions. Don’t forget that one. Four times.”
Springboks Playing in Japanese Clubs
Japan has become a second home for many Springbok stars who play at club level in the country.
Some of the key players include:
- Faf de Klerk – Yokohama Canon Eagles
- Franco Mostert – Honda Heat
- Kurt-Lee Arendse – Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars
- Damian De Allende – Saitama Wild Knights
- Jessie Kriel – Yokohama Canon Eagles
- Cheslin Kolbe – Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath
- Kwagga Smith – Shizuoka Blue Revs
- Manie Libbok – Hanazono Kintetsu Liners
Will More Springboks Join Japan Clubs?
With rugby continuing to grow in popularity in Japan, questions remain whether more Springbok players will join Japanese clubs in the near future.