“No DNA, Just RSA”: South Africans Proud of the Nation For Dominating Sports and World Events
“No DNA, just RSA” has been the catch phrase on the digital streets of Mzansi over the past couple of months. From the Springboks’ record-forming triumph at the World Cup in France to Tyla making history of her own at the Grammys, South Africans have been beaming with pride, parading national pride in every shape and form on the socials.
On the 7th of February 2024, an inspired Bafana Bafana side fell short against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, losing 4-2 on penalties after the tumultuous match dragged past 90 minutes in the AFCON semi-final encounter. Even though Bafana fell and are due for a 3rd Place Play-Off on Saturday, South Africans were proud of the showing, with many feeling as though the current squad exceeded expectations.
Bafana Bafana | SUPPLIED
Bafana’s AFCON campaign stoked national pride, with users on X reliving past achievements of South Africans – on and off the field. The thematic scope of the collective celebration of Mzansi folk has been that of SA being one of the greatest countries in the world.
Springboks Becoming 4X Champions
The formidable bokke side captained by Siya Kolisi went to France as the defending champions of the world. With three successful campaigns at the Rugby World Cup, they headed into the sport’s grand stage boosted by the #Maybuye slogan.
The Springboks celebrating the Rugby WC Win
Dricus du Plessis’ UFC Win
Mixed Martial Artist Dricus Du Plessis made history of his won when he claimed South Africa’s very first UFC title. He defeated American Sean Strickland at the UFC 297 to win the UFC Middleweight Championship. The UFC champion returned home to a hero’s welcome at OR Tambo International Airport.
Dricus Holding His UFC Title | SUPPLIED
Tyla’s Grammy Win
South Africa had more cause for celebration as singer-songwriter Tyla won her very first Grammy as a major music award. With her global hit “Water”, she won Best African Music Performance, beating out the likes of Davido, Burna Boy, and Asake to the newly-minted category. She became the youngest South African to win a Grammy ever and also in the category she was nominated under.
Tyla With Her Historic Grammy
Netizens recounted these victories, hailing Mzansi and expressing pride in being South African.
@dushan_munsami compiled a list of achievements, ranging from sports feats to South Africa taking Israel to the ICJ and coming out on top, saying “What a country, man.”
@Hope_N_D tweeted a list of wins by the country, and said: “But guys, South Africa has been winning so much recently […] I’m am not a fiercely patriotic person but I am super proud of our country.”
@MusaNdl84086446 tweeted: “At this point, God is flexing SA to the world” after counting South Africa’s various victories.