Duif's legacy has no boundaries

Cape Town - Duif du Toit’s legacy has no boundaries.

This became evident as tributes continued to pour in on Thursday evening for the award-winning sports photographer who passed away earlier in the day. He was 57.  

It is believed that Du Toit suffered organ failure in a Johannesburg hospital.   

Du Toit had been working for Gallo Images since 2006, and how much respect he had earned from the sporting world was clear for all to see from the overwhelming messages of condolences that emerged in the hours following the news.

And it went to the very top, with Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula expressing his sadness.

“Some of the best pictures that captured our sporting history were taken by Duif du Toit, sad to learn about his passing,” Mbalula said via his Twitter account.

“Duif has been a legendary figure on the touchlines and boundary ropes of South African sport throughout the post-isolation period,” said Cricket South Africa Chief Executive, Haroon Lorgat.

“He was a consummate professional and the quality of his work measured up to the best international standards.

“He covered our Proteas in action both at home and abroad and our players, who had the greatest respect for him, valued his friendship, not to mention the wonderful images he captured of their careers.”

Known for never wearing long pants at sporting events, Du Toit’s influence didn’t stop there.

The shock was felt from all corners … from PSL franchise Mpumalanga Black Aces to former SA women’s hockey captain Marsha Cox.

Numerous Springboks, Proteas and broadcasters past and present lent their voices to what was a grieving South African sports community. 

Sincere condolences 2 the family & the friends of Duif Du Toit. He shot many of our games & will fondly be remembered pic.twitter.com/EUtrHrQR3A

— Mpumalanga BlackAces (@mpblackaces) September 24, 2015

Saddened by the passing of Duif du Toit ! What a legend and always friendly!! Brilliant photographer . Rest in peace pic.twitter.com/rDCmuEBJIN

— Gurthro Steenkamp (@gurthro) September 24, 2015

My condolences to the Du Toit family during this difficult time.Will always remember you smile whilst taking those amazing pics RIP Duif

— Vernon Philander (@VDP_24) September 24, 2015

I am so saddened by the passing of Duif du Toit. I knew him for 30 years! I have many tour memories that will last with me forever. RIP Duif

— Mike Haysman (@MikeHaysman) September 24, 2015

Very sad to hear the news of Duif du Toit's passing this morning. A world class photographer and world class character. #RIPDuif

— Matt Pearce (@MattP555) September 24, 2015

So sad to hear of the passing of Duif DuToit #RIP #DuifduToit pic.twitter.com/p37rffE8BY

— Marsha Marescia Cox (@MarshaM8) September 24, 2015