Mbalula congratulates Semenya on Rio gold

Cape Town - Minister of Sport and Recreation, Fikile Mbalula, has congratulated Caster Semenya on yet another historical achievement at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Mbalula watched Semenya's historical moment with the Springboks after their win against Argentina in Nelspruit on Saturday.

Semenya won the gold medal in the women's 800m, setting a national record in stopping the clock in a time of 1:55.28.

"On my visit at the Athletes' Village in Rio, I met Caster Semenya together with Team South Africa. I sent messages of support on behalf of South Africans. Caster was motivated and in high spirits and assured me that she will make South Africa proud. She did not disappoint but exceeded our expectations. Caster once again hoisted our national flag high with pride and the world watched and observed as our national anthem was sang. She continues to be exceptional, silencing critics with nothing but success and excellence. On the track, she is invincible. It is for all these reasons and more that we are proud to have her as one of South Africa greatest ambassadors in sport" said Mbalula.

Mbalula thanked all South Africans who've supported Semenya and the entire Team South Africa in Rio.

Mbalula called on South Africans fans to come to OR Tambo International Airport in their numbers to welcome Team SA's athletes home from Rio.