South African sport is experiencing a golden era, a sentiment passionately echoed by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, who lauded the nation's diverse sporting achievements. Highlighting the world champion Springboks in rugby and the Proteas in Test cricket, McKenzie also pointed to Bafana Bafana's resurgence, Mamelodi Sundowns' Club World Cup victory against Ulsan, and the excellence of South African athletes. He declared South Africa "the best sporting nation in the world," citing the country's prowess across various disciplines, including rugby, cricket, and even surfing.

A significant part of this sporting triumph is the South African men’s cricket team, the Proteas, who made history by clinching their first-ever World Test Championship (WTC) title. On June 14, 2025, they defeated long-standing rivals Australia by five wickets in a thrilling final held at Lord's in London. This victory was particularly sweet as Australia, then ranked number one in the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings and defending champions, were considered favorites. The Proteas, ranked second, rose to the occasion, delivering a memorable performance that cemented their status among the world’s elite Test sides.

The triumphant return of the Proteas to home soil on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, was met with an electrifying welcome. Hundreds of enthusiastic supporters braved the cold morning at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to greet their heroes. The team, led by captain Temba Bavuma, who proudly carried the Test Mace, was met with jubilation, song, and dance. Coach Shukri Conrad's victorious squad, including star batsman Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton, were celebrated for lifting their first major trophy.

Minister Gayton McKenzie joined the welcoming party, emphasizing that the team's win provides hope and inspiration for the nation. He remarked that national teams, like the Proteas, allow people to see themselves and contribute to a socially cohesive, rainbow nation. Head coach Shukri Conrad expressed profound joy at the overwhelming reception, stating, "I am absolutely ecstatic to see people come out in their hundreds. It makes this win even more special. We won a few days ago but it hasn’t sunk in. To get a reception like this… it starts to sink in." The Minister and the cricket team were scheduled to brief the nation further on their success, underscoring the national significance of this historic achievement.