Faf de Klerk poses for a portrait with the Web Ellis Cup in his underwear in 2019. Picture: David Ramos - World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images)
Another World Cup win for the Springboks means another glimpse of rugby star Faf de Klerk in his SA flag broeks.
The Springboks edged New Zealand’s All Blacks 12-11 in an incredible and tense Rugby World Cup final at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis. It was a record fourth Webb Ellis Cup for South Africa.
De Klerk was instrumental in the win and afterwards was spotted in the changing room in his signature costume.
This time he wasn’t greeting the Prince of England but tennis royalty Roger Federer, who popped in to offer his congratulations.
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In a video of the exchange, shared on social media, De Klerk is seen holding a beer while chatting to Federer and then patting him on the shoulder.
He watches on as Federer meets other team members.
De Klerk became an internet sensation after the Springbok’s previous World Cup win in 2019, after he was spotted in the underwear. Soon everyone wanted a pair and the undies were sold out.
He said he was “massively surprised” by the response.
“I always play with it. There is no massive back-story. I just always play in a South African speedo when I play for the Springboks. I’ve probably played the last two years with it,” he revealed.
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He said he did not intend to create a trend, but the response had been great.
“It’s created a nice vibe and the people are enjoying it, so I’m all for that. It’s all for fun.”
Meanwhile, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi had the nation in tears when he followed up a World Cup-winning team performance with a breathtaking speech about what it meant for a nation in need of hope and unity.
Giving an interview after the game, Kolisi said those not from South Africa don’t understand what it means to the country.
“It’s not just about the game on the field. Our country goes through such a lot and we are bearing the hope they have,” he explained.
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He thanked the nation for their support and said his team were fighting to give hope and unity.
“We are just children from a third-world country, who fight and fight, over and over, for people that need hope.
“This team shows what diversity can do for our team, and our country. As soon as we work together, all is possible. No matter what, and without fear. On the field and in offices, it just shows what we can do [as a nation].
“I am grateful for this team. I am so proud of it.”
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