Playmaker Ricardo Duarttee says that he’s refocused on serving to the Blitzboks declare extra trophies after his controversial walkout final season.
After a turbulent interval that noticed him briefly abandon the group in Vancouver in 2023-24, Duarttee’s comeback has been marked by a deliberate shift in mindset.
“I’m extra centered on simply doing my job now and not likely saying a lot, simply going onto that subject and giving it my all,” the previous Rookie of the 12 months stated in a wide-ranging interview with Sport24 following South Africa’s Cape City Sevens win final week.
“I advised somebody the opposite day that my purpose is to not be one of the best participant I might be, however to be one of the best participant I might be for this group so we will win trophies this 12 months.”
The 26-year-old revealed that he needed to rebuild belief with coaches and teammates after his dramatic exit. “I needed to apologise to not solely him but in addition to the coaches, administration and the gamers.
“After my apology, I might see how the fellows began opening as much as me once more and accepted me again into the system,” he stated.
Throughout his time away, Duarttee gained perspective by experiences taking part in in Russia and England.
“We play this sport to win, so my purpose is to be centered on placing my finest foot ahead for this group so we will win tournaments.”
His performances in Dubai and Cape City this season have already demonstrated his renewed dedication, with the group clinching their first dwelling title since 2015.
Regardless of lacking out on the Olympic bronze medal in France, Duarttee has his sights on the 2028 Video games in Los Angeles.
“My time will come, and, on the proper time,” he added. “The folks which are concerned within the occasions, the referees, the officers who do the subbing and organise the occasions all got here to me in Dubai and Cape City and advised me it’s nice having me again … which means quite a bit.”
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Picture: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Photos
