South Africa head coach Swys de Bruin said "a giant has awoken" after the Springbok Women departed Rugby World Cup 2025 on the back of making history.
De Bruin's side were beaten 46-17 by defending champions New Zealand in Saturday's quarter-final in Exeter, but just by running onto the pitch they became the first Women's team from South Africa to do so - and they want to make sure it's not a one-off.
"For us it was a great moment," said captain Nolusindiso Booi. "It's something that we had never tasted. The taste was good and it's something that the girls will fight for going forward."
South Africa may continue to make those strides, but sadly for Booi she will not be a part of it. The 40-year-old will hang up her boots now that her side's tournament is over.
"I'm so emotional right now but I am also proud of the progress of our team," she said. "I feel that we did good and for sure the young generation will push for the final, hopefully next time."
De Bruin paid tribute to his captain during as emotional post-match press conference, calling her 'the GOAT', and says the future of women's rugby in South Africa is bright after his squad's performance at Rugby World Cup 2025.
"It's all about the difference they made for the people back home," an emotional De Bruin said.
"I've been blessed with 38 years in professional rugby and I've never worked with a team like this.
"It's just a bunch of fighters. I cry every day with pride. It's just unreal how they never moan, they just go, go, go. A giant has awoken in South African women's rugby."
