Team SA celebrated at OR Tambo after medal-winning campaign
"Winning the gold medal was definitely the biggest highlight. I honestly struggled to sleep that night." - Nathan Hendricks
Supporters dressed in South African flag colours gathered at OR Tambo International Airport on August 1 to welcome Team SA home following its outstanding performance at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Swimmers, para swimmers and the wheelchair basketball team received a warm reception as they were celebrated during a media briefing hosted by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC).
Reflecting on the team’s achievements, swimming coach Dean Thomas said South Africa had transformed its fortunes since the previous Commonwealth Games.
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“At the last Games, we had eight fourth-place finishes. This year, those performances were turned into a total of 22 medals,” said Thomas.
SASCOC first vice-president Lwandile Simelane said the team’s success was the result of years of dedication, training and preparation.
“It’s a great opportunity and a good kick-off ahead of the Olympics. It gives our athletes a chance to showcase their skills on an international stage, and it’s always a privilege to deliver a team that performs wholeheartedly,” said Simelane.
“To everyone who watched, both here at home and abroad, I hope they see a future for themselves in sport. I hope they learn how to handle pressure, grow through competition and believe in what is possible.”
Nathan Hendricks’ father, who travelled to Glasgow to support his son, described watching the gold medallist compete as an unforgettable experience.
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“I couldn’t be prouder. Because of his disability, a whole new set of life challenges presented itself. Seeing how he has embraced those challenges and never allowed them to limit him is truly inspiring. He has committed himself completely to the sport, and it’s unbelievable to witness,” he said.
Competing at his first Commonwealth Games, Nathan Hendricks said winning gold was an unforgettable moment.
“It was an awesome experience. Being with the able-bodied guys made me feel even more part of the team because it’s usually just the four of us. The camaraderie throughout the Games was incredible,” he said.
“Winning the gold medal was definitely the biggest highlight. I honestly struggled to sleep that night. I wasn’t completely sure I’d won until my competitor congratulated me. Then the celebrations really began.”
Hendricks encouraged aspiring young athletes to enjoy the journey, trust the process and remember that every challenge serves a purpose.
