South Africa winger Aphiwe Dyantyi has sent a positive message on Instagram, saying his “heart is at peace” following his suspension for failing a drugs test.
Two samples provided by the 25-year-old in July tested positive for three prohibited substances, although he has insisted that he is innocent. Despite this, he has said: “One of the happiest moments in life is when you find the courage to let go of what you cannot change.”
Although the Lions winger was expected to miss the Rugby World Cup with a hamstring injury, he was provisionally suspended after his first failed test, and awaits a hearing which could see him receive a four year ban from rugby.
In what must have been testing times for the winger, particularly as the Springboks went on to win the RWC, he has shared an uplifting message to all his followers. He said:
“5 months later and not much has changed, except my battles and struggles empower and give me strength. In recent months I’ve found myself smiling more often, even when I’m sad I’m happy, even when feel like crying I find myself smiling.
“I believe my heart is at peace even though some days I still wake up feeling sad & hopeless at least I wake up wanting to live. If it weren’t for that (love & support of friends & family, messages of encouragement) life would be worthless, so thanks to everything and everyone that has shown me support.”
The 2018 World Rugby breakthrough player of the year chose to contest the charge in September, where he will face a hearing before an independent tribunal panel, but no date is yet confirmed.
This was news that shocked the rugby world at the time, as Dyantyi seemingly had so much before him after surging onto the international scene in 2018. Although he would only be 28 years of age when he returns if he were banned for four years, it would be very hard to reestablish himself again after so long out.
Regardless of what the future holds for him, this is a positive response in what must be uncertain times.
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