Johannnesburg - Olympian Sunette Viljoen seems to have garnered support on social media, following Wednesday night’s Twitter rant criticising the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc), hours after team SA’s return from Rio de Janeiro.
In a series of tweets, the silver medallist accused Sascoc of failing to provide adequate support for the athletes in the run-up to the Rio Olympics.
The javelin thrower tweeted: “I have spoken out numerous times the past few years about the lack of support for SA’s athletes. I really have nothing more to say. “If there’s one organisation that needs urgent investigation, it is Sascoc. Start with R70 million donations by the Lottery two weeks before Rio.
“Last #funfact for today. Had to pay out of my own pocket for my Olympic kit to be adjusted by a tailor because sizes were not taken.”
Viljoen also threw a jibe at the federation’s president. “Sascoc president Gideon Sam says he promised on 10 medals and he delivered. #Teams Arrival #teamSArise.
"HE delivered? What did he deliver? If only the truth was known.”
On Wednesday, social media users showed support for the Olympian. Among them was sports journalist Graeme Joffe, who tweeted: “Huge respect for standing up for what is right & still able to deliver Olympic silver. Now Mbalula & co will love you! “
Another person, @Brian-Tsabadi, asked: “Always complaining must mean there is something to complain about! Has Sascoc even denied claims?”
@Bongo Muffing questioned Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula, who had earlier said Viljoen “complains too much”.
@Rara_Mgij commended Viljoen for speaking out, saying “Your courage will be noticed” while @ChelseaUp2Date urged sprinter Wayde van Niekerk to join Viljoen.