Dumile Mateza is seen as a legendary sports commentator in South Africa and created a unique space for sport – especially in rugby, soccer and boxing – in radio and TV.
Mateza released a statement in honour of their loss
Mateza – nicknamed “Phesheya Phaya” – sadly passed away on Tuesday after battling cancer for a while. And according to his family, the veteran broadcaster died peacefully.
“Our beloved succumbed to cancer on February 1 2022,” the family said.
“His passing brings an end to a remarkable career in sports, news actuality and magazine broadcasting. Dumile will be sorely missed by his wife, children and extended family.
“The Mateza family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to all who carried them during the time Dumile was fighting for his life. When a loved one passes on, we are never prepared for the pain and grief.
“Lala ngoxolo Nala.”
Dumile Mateza made history with his commentry
The broadcaster was born in the Eastern Cape and first became known as a versatile sports commentator at the SABC in the 1980s. Mateza was especially popular for his ability to commentate in different languages – IsiXhosa, Afrikaans and English.
Mateza will particularly be remembered for commentating in Afrikaans during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, which made the win for the Springboks that more special.
RIP Dumile Mateza, jovial veteran of SA sports broadcasting. Industrious presence as we emerged from sporting isolation.
— Rob Houwing (@RobHouwing) February 2, 2022
Dumile Mateza has died. Ubiquitous on the sporting scene during my days in South Africa. A cracking fella. pic.twitter.com/eP1vLjUGQe
— Martin Gillingham (@MartGillingham) February 1, 2022