Springbok legend Chester Williams dies, aged 49
Former Springbok wing and rugby legend Chester Williams has
died.
Williams passed away on Friday of an apparent heart attack.
The 49-year-old was part of the famous 1995 Rugby World Cup that won the William Webb Ellis trophy for the first time in South Africa.
His death comes just weeks after James Small, the other South African starting wing in the final, died.
Williams’ is now the fourth player from the 1995 World Cup winning team to have died – including Ruben Kruger, Joost van der Westhuizen and Small. Coach Kitch Christie died in 1998.
Williams was the only non-white player in the 1995 World Cup squad as has been credited by many as being a pioneer of the game in terms of opening the doors to other non-white players to perform at the highest level in the green and gold.
Former South African wing, Breyton Paulse said the country has lost an icon.
I’m lost for words,RIP pal,we’ve lost an ICON,thinking of Maria and the kids,close family and friends #RIPCHESSI pic.twitter.com/4eCegVUfuj
— Breyton Paulse (@BreytonPaulse) September 6, 2019
Former Springbok loose forward, Thando Manana sent his condolences to the Williams family.
Utterly shocked and saddened at the tragic death of Springbok Wing Chester Williams. Heartfelt condolences to Maria and the kids and family. Rest in peace Chessie. What fun we had Roomie recently in Cape Town. 💔💔😭😭 pic.twitter.com/R7Tu4dwENE
— ThandoManana (@TandoManana) September 6, 2019
Not you too Chester? How can we forget the symbolic role you played with the team in winning us the historic 1995 Rugby World Cup. Your impact both on and off the field in forging unity amongst all South Africans remains your greatest legacy. Siyabonga. Sithi ndlelanhle. pic.twitter.com/nEu8pYqq7W
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) September 6, 2019
Devastating news. Rest in Peace, Chester Williams.
— Springboks (@Springboks) September 6, 2019
🔗 https://t.co/Kwt7t8fTzh#RIPChester pic.twitter.com/l7qJs9f4of
I can't believe we still spoke to each other this morning... #RIPChesterhttps://t.co/s0qudwlLru
— IG: johngoliath (@JohnGoliath82) September 6, 2019
Another huge blow to the rugby family and our country, with the passing of Chester Williams. Talented player, family man, loved by the community, our hearts are bleeding😔Mooi loop my broer🙏
— Kobus Wiese (@4KobusWiese) September 6, 2019
So saddened to hear of the passing of @Springboks great Chester Williams at just 49. A poignant symbol of the iconic RWC1995 and a lovely man. Thoughts and sympathies go out to his family and friends. #RIP
— Brett Gosper (@brettgosper) September 6, 2019
My childhood hero💔 I still can’t believe it...gone way too soon😢
— JP Pietersen (@jppietersen14) September 6, 2019
My condolences go out to Chester’s family and close friends🙏🏽
Rest In Peace Chester Williams
Legend 🙌🏽#RIPChessie pic.twitter.com/8Xupmtfbei
Everyone at England Rugby is saddened to hear of the passing of Rugby World Cup winner Chester Williams.
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) September 6, 2019
Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/DWJW0A1mM1
The world of rugby mourns the passing of @Springboks great Chester Williams. A true legend on and off the pitch! pic.twitter.com/c6nXHNcp2y
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) September 6, 2019
— Mpumelelo Mbangwa (@mmbangwa) September 6, 2019