World Cup 2026: Ronwen Williams denies viral quotes and calls for African unity ahead of Czech Republic clash

South Africa captain Ronwen Williams has strongly denied comments attributed to him following Bafana Bafana’s opening World Cup defeat to Mexico, insisting he has always supported African unity and never criticized fellow Africans for backing other nations.

Williams addressed the controversy during a press conference ahead of South Africa’s crucial Group A match against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.

The goalkeeper revealed he has been hurt by the reaction to remarks he says he never made, after several reports circulated online claiming he was disappointed that African fans supported Mexico during South Africa’s 2-0 loss in the tournament opener. Reports quoting such comments spread widely across Africa in recent days, although subsequent reports questioned their authenticity.

“You know, because there were, I mean, I’ve been a target over the last few days about things that I haven’t said,” Williams explained.

“I didn’t speak anything about Africa and people supporting Mexico. I can remember, I’ve always said that, you know, as Africa, we are one. We support each other.”

The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper admitted the situation had affected him personally, particularly because criticism extended beyond football and touched on wider issues affecting South Africa.

“I don’t know where it stemmed from, and it does hurt, you know, because, like I’ve mentioned, I’ve been attacked, obviously, my country as well, for things that are going on back home.”

Williams stressed that footballers should not be dragged into political debates and should instead be judged on what happens on the pitch.

“I’ve always said, you know, players are human beings as well. We go through it, and for us, sometimes it gets a lot. You want to focus on doing your job, which is being a footballer.”

“But then, you know, you get involved in politics and, you know, you don’t want to be in that space.”

The 34-year-old also highlighted the power of football to bring people together regardless of nationality or background.

“That’s the wonderful thing about sports. It can unite, it can make or break you, and it can bring people together.”

“We are in Atlanta now, and I see so many Africans, South Africans, people from Mexico in one room. That’s the beauty of sport. That’s the beauty of football.”

Williams concluded his remarks with a message aimed at football supporters across the continent.

“So let’s just enjoy. Let’s have a wonderful time. And we leave politics to the politicians.”

“Yeah, that’s Africa. Let’s unite, and let’s keep going. Yeah, as Africa, let’s unite and let’s keep going because we are all in this together.”

South Africa head into Thursday’s clash against the Czech Republic needing a positive result after their opening defeat to Mexico. Another loss would leave Bafana Bafana facing an uphill battle to reach the knockout stages.