Ronwen Williams will walk out as South Africa's captain for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup carrying something far more personal than a armband. Every time he steps between the posts, he carries the memory of his brother Marvin, who died in a car crash in 2010.
That loss has shaped Williams into the goalkeeper and leader he is today. Marvin's memory is a quiet, constant force behind him, and as Bafana Bafana face Mexico in the tournament opener, that presence feels bigger than ever.
South Africa earning the right to host and open a World Cup is already a historic moment for the continent. Having Williams, a man fuelled by grief turned into purpose, lead the team out makes it something even more worth watching.
Originally published by BBC Africa.