From Rural Hardship to Rugby World Cup Glory: The Inspiring Journey of South Africa’s Try-Scoring Sensation
Makazole Drex Mapimpi stands as one of the most inspirational figures in modern rugby, a player whose journey from rural poverty to becoming a two-time Rugby World Cup winner embodies the transformative power of perseverance and talent. Born on July 26, 1990, in the village of Tsholomnqa near East London in the Eastern Cape, Mapimpi’s story is far removed from the privileged backgrounds of many professional rugby players.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in one of South Africa’s most challenging environments, Mapimpi faced circumstances that would have broken many aspiring athletes. Raised by his grandmother in rural poverty, he lost his mother, brother, and sister at a young age, leaving him without immediate family support. Unlike most of his Springbok counterparts, he didn’t attend prestigious rugby schools and was in no position to be scouted by talent spotters.
Standing at 1.84 meters tall and weighing 92 kilograms, Mapimpi’s physical attributes combined with raw pace would eventually become his calling cards, but his path to professional rugby was anything but conventional.
The Long Road to Professional Rugby
Mapimpi’s rugby journey began with the Border Bulldogs Under-19 team, where despite putting in solid performances, he endured over 50 appearances marked by frequent defeats. His local rugby encounters were beyond the reaches of even regional rugby matches, and for years, whispers that he might one day become a Springbok seemed like distant dreams from the townships of East London.
The turning point came remarkably late in his career. In 2017, at the age of 27, Mapimpi finally got his breakthrough when he joined the Southern Kings in the professional ranks. This was an age when most rugby players are already established professionals or considering retirement, making his rise all the more extraordinary.
Professional Career Breakthrough
Southern Kings (2017)
Mapimpi’s professional debut with the Southern Kings immediately showcased his exceptional finishing ability. In 14 appearances, he scored an impressive 11 tries, announcing himself as a genuine try-scoring threat and attracting attention from bigger franchises.
Free State Cheetahs (2017-2018)
In April 2017, the Free State Cheetahs contracted Mapimpi until the end of the 2018 season. This move proved crucial for his development, as the Cheetahs’ attacking style perfectly suited his raw speed and ability to capitalize on teammates’ half-breaks. He scored 10 tries in 13 appearances, further cementing his reputation as a prolific finisher.
The Sharks (2018-Present)
Mapimpi’s impressive performances with the Cheetahs earned him a move to the Sharks, one of South Africa’s premier rugby unions. This transition to a more prominent franchise provided the platform for his international breakthrough and established him as one of the premier wingers in South African rugby.
International Career Excellence
Springbok Debut and Meteoric Rise
Selected for the Springboks in June 2018, Mapimpi’s international career began with explosive impact. From his debut, he emerged as the best winger of the year, experiencing a meteoric rise on the international front that defied his late start to professional rugby.
2019 Rugby World Cup Glory
The 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan marked Mapimpi’s arrival on the global stage. As a key player in Siya Kolisi’s championship-winning squad, he made history by becoming the first South African to score a try in a Rugby World Cup final. His performance throughout the tournament was exceptional, scoring six tries including two in the quarter-final victory over Japan (26-3) and the historic try in the final against England, which South Africa won convincingly 32-12.
2021 British & Irish Lions Series
Mapimpi played a crucial role in South Africa’s series victory over the British & Irish Lions. After the Springboks lost the first match, he was instrumental in the series comeback, playing the entire second test and scoring the pivotal winning try to level the series. His spectacular performance in that second test earned him widespread respect and was described as worthy of Man of the Match by James Haskell.
2023 Rugby World Cup Success
Mapimpi was again selected for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, adding to his impressive tournament record. He appeared in two matches, including a Player of the Match performance against Romania where he scored three tries. Unfortunately, a head injury that fractured his cheekbone in the match against Tonga ruled him out for the remainder of the tournament. Despite this setback, he received his second World Cup winner’s medal as South Africa became the first team to win the Rugby World Cup for the fourth time.
Record-Breaking Achievements
All-Time Try-Scoring Records
As of November 2024, Mapimpi has achieved several remarkable milestones:
- 32 tries in 46 Tests – Currently tied for third place on South Africa’s all-time try-scorers list with Jacques Fourie
- 70% try-scoring ratio – Superior to all other post-Apartheid era Springbok players, including Bryan Habana (54% from 67 tries in 124 tests)
- Most prolific post-Apartheid era try-scorer – His conversion rate is unmatched in modern Springbok rugby
- Scored against every opposition – As of September 2022, he maintained the rare achievement of scoring against every team he faced internationally
- Tries against 15 nations – Demonstrating consistent performance across diverse opposition
The only players ahead of him on the all-time list are Joost van der Westhuizen (38 tries) and Bryan Habana (67 tries), making his achievement even more remarkable given his relatively short international career spanning just six years.
Playing Style and Impact
Mapimpi primarily operates as a winger and centre, bringing a combination of raw pace, predatory finishing instincts, and intelligent positioning to his game. His ability to capitalize on half-breaks and create tries from minimal opportunities has made him one of the most feared attackers in world rugby.
His try-scoring talent is complemented by tactical awareness and the ability to perform under pressure, as evidenced by his crucial contributions in high-stakes matches including World Cup finals and Lions series deciders.
Recent Career Developments
In 2024, Mapimpi continued his prolific form, topping the Springbok try-scoring charts with six tries throughout the season. His consistent performances have maintained his position as a key player in Rassie Erasmus’s squad, despite being 34 years old.
However, his career has not been without controversy. He has faced disciplinary issues, including bans for eye-gouging incidents in 2023, serving suspensions for making contact with opponents’ eyes during matches in both the Champions Cup and URC.
Legacy and Inspiration
Mapimpi’s career represents far more than statistical achievements. Coming from arguably the harshest personal conditions any Springbok has had to endure, his journey from rural poverty to becoming a two-time World Cup winner serves as inspiration for future generations. His story demonstrates that talent and determination can overcome the most challenging circumstances.
At 34, he remains a vital component of the Springbok setup, continuing to mentor younger players while maintaining his status as one of the world’s premier finishers. His remarkable try-scoring ratio and historic achievements have already secured his place among South African rugby’s greatest players.
Conclusion
Makazole Mapimpi’s career is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. From his humble beginnings in Tsholomnqa to becoming the first South African to score in a World Cup final, his journey transcends rugby statistics. With 32 tries in 46 Tests and a 70% conversion rate that surpasses rugby legends, Mapimpi has not only rewritten record books but also redefined what’s possible for players from disadvantaged backgrounds.
As he continues to represent the Springboks and the Sharks, Mapimpi remains a symbol of hope and determination, proving that with talent, hard work, and unwavering belief, even the most unlikely dreams can become reality. His legacy extends beyond the try line, inspiring countless young South Africans that their circumstances need not define their destiny.
