Springboks Star Bongi Mbonambi Announces the Death of His Grandmother

Springboks Star Bongi Mbonambi Announces the Death of His Grandmother

  • Bongi Mbonambi and his family have been thrown into mourning as the Springboks star announced the passing of his grandmother
  • The South African rugby international is known for his resilience on the rugby field, but he grieved after losing a loved one
  • The tragic news about the Springboks star's mother generated loads of tributes from the player's fans and his teammates on social media

Bongi Mbonambi is dealing with deep personal grief beyond the rugby pitch after confirming the passing of his grandmother. The Springboks hooker shared the sad news, revealing a painful chapter in his life away from the spotlight.

Springboks, South Africa, Bongi Mbonambi
Bongi Mbonambi during the South African national men's rugby team training session at UCD Training Fields on November 19, 2025, in Dublin, Ireland. Image: Sam Barnes
Source: Getty Images

To Mbonambi, his Gogo was far more than a family elder; she was a pillar of support and wisdom. Her death has left an emotional gap within a family that places great importance on heritage and togetherness.

He was part of the Springboks team that dominated the 2025 season, winning the Rugby Championship, while also missing some matches due to personal reasons.

Read also

"It's sad": Beloved Joburg security guard David Sejobe honoured with billboard after fatal accident

Renowned for his toughness, leadership, and tireless effort in the front row, Mbonambi now faces a far more personal battle off the field. Losing such a guiding presence is never easy, yet his farewell message reflected calm faith and acceptance, suggesting he believes her earthly purpose had been fulfilled.

The hooker has regularly credited his family as the backbone of his rugby success. This loss, therefore, may become another source of emotional strength in an already remarkable journey. As a two-time Rugby World Cup champion, Mbonambi understands resilience and rising through hardship.

Mbonambi announces grandmother’s passing

Mbonambi broke the heartbreaking news through an Instagram post. While fans know him as a fierce competitor in green and gold, the message revealed the vulnerable man behind the jersey.

Though brief, his tribute carried immense emotional weight. He wrote, “Rest my Gogo… your work has been done ❤️🥹🕊️,” honouring a woman whose influence clearly shaped his life.

The words reflected a grandson’s deep appreciation and acknowledged the sacrifices that helped guide his path. For many South Africans, the message resonated strongly, echoing shared experiences of being raised by powerful and loving grandmothers. His post captured grief and gratitude in a single, touching sentence.

Read also

“He was loved”: Hundreds gather outside MultiChoice offices to celebrate the life of David Sejobe

Fans and teammates rally around Mbonambi

An outpouring of support followed in the comments section of the post, made by Mbonambi, with fans offering condolences and thanking his grandmother for raising a fighter who represents the nation with pride. Social media quickly became a place of shared mourning, as others reflected on their own losses.

Springboks, Bongi Mbonambi, South Africa
South Africa's Bongi Mbonambi during the pre-match warm-up during the Quilter Nations Series 2025 rugby international match between Wales and South Africa at Principality Stadium. Image: Ian Cook
Source: Getty Images

Fellow players and sports figures also reached out with prayers and messages of comfort. In the end, Mbonambi’s tribute served as a reminder that even sporting icons carry heavy personal burdens. As he grieves the loss of his Gogo, supporters will hope her legacy continues to motivate his powerful presence on the field.

Damian De Allende said:

"Condolences, my brother 🙏🏼❤️"

Mona_the_undertaker shared:

"Stand strong, Bongs 🙏🏽 Gogo rests in his arms ❤️"

Charmainedersley wrote:

"My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. She is very proud of you."

Sophiacariad commented:

"Eternal rest grant unto Gogo, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen. For those you leave behind, may they be blessed with the knowledge that this is not goodbye, this is see you later. 🙏🏼"

Read also

"The power of a mom": Supportive mom steals the show by cheering for son during athletics, SA moved

ottiebrey added:

"Sorry for your loss. Pray for you & family in this sad time."

Erasmus breaks silence on Brown's exit talks

Briefly News also reported that Rassie Erasmus shares the latest update on the ongoing rumours linking Springboks assistant coach Tony Brown to the All Blacks of New Zealand.

The Springboks head coach also commented on Brown's commitment with the reigning World champions ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@sportsbrief.com.

Tags: