Tricky Ricky on his Blitzboks redemption
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Playmaker Ricardo Duarttee says that he is refocused on helping the Blitzboks claim more trophies after his controversial walkout last season.
After a turbulent period that saw him temporarily abandon the team in Vancouver in 2023-24, Duarttee’s comeback has been marked by a deliberate shift in mindset.
“I’m more focused on just doing my job now and not really saying much, just going onto that field and giving it my all,” the former Rookie of the Year said in a wide-ranging interview with Sport24 following South Africa’s Cape Town Sevens win last week.
“I told someone the other day that my goal is not to be the best player I can be, but to be the best player I can be for this team so we can win trophies this year."
The 26-year-old revealed that he had to rebuild trust with coaches and teammates after his dramatic exit. “I had to apologise to not only him but also to the coaches, management and the players.
"After my apology, I could see how the guys started opening up to me again and accepted me back into the system,” he said.
During his time away, Duarttee gained perspective through experiences playing in Russia and England.
“We play this game to win, so my goal is to be focused on putting my best foot forward for this team so we can win tournaments.”
His performances in Dubai and Cape Town this season have already demonstrated his renewed commitment, with the team clinching their first home title since 2015.
Despite missing out on the Olympic bronze medal in France, Duarttee has his sights on the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
“My time will come, and, at the right time," he added. “The people that are involved in the events, the referees, the officials who do the subbing and organise the events all came to me in Dubai and Cape Town and told me it’s great having me back … that means a lot.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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