World Cup rekindles old friendship

Richards Bay’s Piet Louw with the surprise letter from an American friend praising South Africa

Almost 30 years ago, Zululanders Piet and Lynn Louw met American Emma Morally during a 26-day tour to Europe. That friendship was rekindled five years later when the Richards Bay couple visited Morally in New York. Christmas cards were exchanged, but almost two decades passed without much contact. But the successful hosting of the Soccer World Cup in South Africa has ignited not only football fervour, but also long lasting friendships. Piet was surprised on Monday when he received a letter from their ‘forgotten’ friend. Overwhelmed by the fantastic hosting of the world soccer showpiece, Morally commended South Africa for its exceptional hosting of the tournament and the world. ‘With sincere admiration, I have to congratulate you for the hospitality and friendship your country has given to the world in this World Cup. ‘Now the world knows how beautiful South Africa is,’ wrote Morally. ‘If this is the view the rest of the world has of South Africa, we have a great future and hope for our country,’ said Louw. The Louws have now invited their American friend to finally visit South Africa. ‘I don't want to die without visiting your country,’ Morally wrote.