It is with great sadness that we at Last Word heard of the passing of Nelson Mandela today. Mandela was a great statesman and humanitarian. He rose above the struggles of apartheid, and helped unite a nation that still feels his legacy today.

Beyond this, Mandela also had a huge impact in the world of sports. The film Invictus details Mandela’s involvement in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, an event South Africa would go on to win under the inspired captaincy of Francois Pienaar. Mandela was on hand to congratulate his Springbok team, and celebrate the positive effect this had on his nation.

In 2010 South Africa played host to the FIFA World Cup, Mandela again appearing in support of his country. A country that only 20 years previously had released him from incarceration, and had held many other of his countrymen in abject poverty.

Mandela always carried himself with a quiet dignity that earned him respect the world over. Where others would rage, Mandela talked. Where others would fight, Mandela listened. He lead his nation with honor, and he served to guide South Africa from a time of hatred, to a time of hope.

We here at Last Word on Sports extend our sympathies to the people of South Africa. Mandela’s legacy will remain a beacon of hope for the people of South Africa, and a shining light for the world.

Main Photo Credit: Rugby Canada