The sporting world is arguably the most lucrative industry in the world. Most athletes, particularly footballers usually earn millions through their weekly salaries and the numerous sponsorship deals they land courtesy of their celebrity status.
However, money and fame can sometimes cause people to become proud, disrespectful and forget their humble beginnings.
TeamKenya.co.ke takes a look at three African sportsmen who are considered by many as the most humble athletes to have ever come from the continent.
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Sadio Mane
The former Liverpool attacker is perhaps the most humble African sportsperson. Despite being one of the best players in the world, Mane does not show off or treat others in a disrespectful way.
Almost everyone he has played or interacted with has described Mane as a selfless and humble person. The Anfield Wrap Podcast presenter John Gibbons once described why Liverpool fans love Sadio.
"He was shopping in an Asda in Hunts Cross wearing a traditional dress when a fan holding a baby asked for a picture. Mane then stood there holding the baby and smiling. It’s the fact he’s just in a normal supermarket. A lot of people who’ve met him said he’s very approachable and sort of a bit shy.”
“When Liverpool signed him, he was wide right and was probably player of the season. Then we sign [Mohamed] Salah and Sadio just moved to the left," Gibbons revealed.
Mane also uses a big portion of his earnings to improve the lives of people in the community. For example, Sadio gives €70 (Ksh8,400) monthly to every family in his village. He has also constructed a €455000 (Ksh54,800,000) health facility and €250000 (Ksh241, 000) learning institution in the same village.
Eliud Kipchoge
Despite being the greatest marathoner of all time, Eliud Kipchoge is a very humble person. Kipchoge does not drive flashy cars nor does he look down on other members of society. The marathon world record holder was once described by Mike Kiplagat, a local shop owner in the outskirts of Eldoret as a humble guy.
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“He arrives on the back of a motorbike taxi, comes in, makes his purchase and then leaves. He is a legend but is so humble,” Kiplagat was quoted by BBC Sport.
The double Olympic champion also engages in many community programs like the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation which raises finances to schools and libraries.
Humphrey Kayange
Humphrey Kayange is without doubt the most successful rugby player in Kenyan history. Despite being a an accomplished sportsperson, it is very rare to hear about this humble gentleman. He only makes news when playing rugby, winning an individual award or engaging in projects that help other members of society, especially the needy.
Many individuals both sportspersons and ordinary members of the society who interacted with Kayange during his 16 year career, paid classy tributes to him when he announced his retirement from Rugby Sevens in 2018. His former teammate Dennis Ombachi also described Kayange as one of the most down to earth players he has ever played alongside.
Kayange who started his career at Ulinzi Rugby Club and went on to win numerous titles including the prestigious 2018 HSBC Singapore 7s cup was described by many as a global figure who was responsible, humble and focused.
The former Shujaas captain has also not forgotten where he came from - he always engages in programs that improve the quality of life of the less fortunate in the community. For instance in 2021, Kayange partnered with other stakeholders to set up a project known as “Segal Family Foundation” to help needy kids in Kibera slum to live a better life.
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