South African singer and songwriter Jesse Clegg delivered a memorable performance of the national anthem before the fourth test match between the Springboks and the All Blacks in Baltimore, USA. Audience members on social media highly praised the musician's performance.
The artist, who holds a platinum album and is a multi-instrumentalist, took to the field before the game at M&T Bank Stadium, which served as the final match of the 'Greatest Rugby Rivalry' series. During the performance, thousands of fans stood proudly, joining their voices in the solemn celebration of South Africa.
It appears this was Clegg's first time performing the national anthem before a Springboks match, lending special significance to the moment for the musician. Sharing a video of the performance on X, Clegg noted: 'It was a real honor.'
Fans praise Jesse Clegg's performance
The performance quickly became a topic of discussion among South African rugby fans, as social media users lauded Clegg's delivery and the emotional nature of the moment. Clegg's performance provided the musical opening to a match that carried the weight of one of the most legendary rivalries in rugby.
A special moment before the historic test
The fourth match was part of the resumed 'Greatest Rugby Rivalry' series, which included the All Blacks tour of South Africa before the teams traveled to the United States for the concluding match. Before the game in Baltimore, the Springboks led the four-match series 2-1 after defeating New Zealand 29-24 in Johannesburg.
The final test was significant not only for rugby. It marked the conclusion of a six-week, eight-match tour and the first full-scale All Blacks tour of South Africa in 30 years. Ultimately, South Africa won with a score of 43-8, concluding the series with a 3-1 victory.