In the final episode of the inspirational ‘Chasing the Sun’ documentary, Rassie Erasmus shared an emotional story that revealed the strength of character of Makazole Mapimpi.
Having overcome immense challenges, and a number of personal obstacles, Mapimpi rose to Springbok stardom when he became the first South African to score a try in a World Cup final last year.
That unforgettable moment was his 14try in his 14th Test, and his journey from the lower echelons of SA rugby to reach the pinnacle of the game was immortalised in Sunday’s airing of ‘Chasing the Sun’ documentary.
In a moment that will resonate long after the final episode was broadcast, Erasmus revealed how Mapimpi’s upbringing truly hit home.
‘On the back of your jersey, there are numbers where you could have photos of family members. He only had photos of himself,’ Erasmus said as he became emotional.
‘He didn’t have anyone else, and I asked “why are you doing this?”, and he said “I’ve got nobody”. You know his brother died, his mother died, he doesn’t have a photo. He doesn’t play for the one thing, he just has a massive heart. Massive heart.’
ALSO READ: Part 1 – Mapimpi has the courage of a champion
— SA Rugby magazine (@SARugbymag) November 1, 2020
