Makazole Mapimpi says the injury could have ‘destroyed’ him
‘Anything can happen’: Springboks’ star winger Makazole Mapimpi reflects on his devastating blowout injury and the Rugby World Cup.
Springboks’ wing Makazole Mapimpi reveals he had to quickly overcome being ruled out of the Rugby World Cup as the injury could have “destroyed” him.
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MAKAZOLE MAMPIMPI ON HIS INJURY
The winger Makazole Mapimpi got replaced by Lukhanyo AM after he fractured his cheekbone in the Springboks’ pool stage win against Tonga at this year’s Rugby World Cup in France.
Mapimpi tells tells BBC Sport Africa that it was painful, but it was very important to get over it as thinking about it may destroy you.
“But I think it was very important at the same time to go over that because if you keep it in your mind, it may destroy you. I had to understand that it is sport, and anything can happen.”
The star also reveals that it was good to see Lukhanyo take over as the pair are close friends.
“It was good to see Lukhanyo take over my place. We share everything, we chat, we share a room (when in camp), all this stuff.”
He was the second Springboks player to get injured after Malcolm Marx who suffered a knee injury.
ALSO READ: Mapimpi and Marx reunite with the Springboks
🇿🇦 Malcom Marx and Makazole Mapimpi arrive back in France! #RWC2023 #RWCFinal pic.twitter.com/v0lZtbbMUs
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) October 27, 2023
SPINGBOKS’ FAN WELCOME MAKAZOLE MAPIMPI BACK IN FRANCE
@JaredWright17 shared on X that both Springboks players Mapimpi Makazole and Malcolm Marx arrived in France on Saturday, a day before their final with All Blacks.
@FarmerAuckland: “Kiwi here. This is so wholesome. It’s hard to hate the Boks when seem to have the same principles as the Abs. Wish both teams health and courage tomorrow. Whoever wins, I hope it will be a test for the ages. Our greatest rivals but our closest brothers.”
@lindrishi: “Wishing uMakazole noMalcom fully recovery, good to them back at the squad camp. Love you all Boks.”
@KanyoKngwendu: “You can just see that these guys care for each other man every day. Their energy is so good I love them. What is Siya doing?”
@socialarchismx: “I’m Aussie and I LOVE this team! Gotta get behind sportsmen and women that play for each other and for their nation/continent. This is outstanding organisational culture. @AustralianRugby hope you’re taking notes!”
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