Luvo Manyonga relishing emotional homecoming in Stellenbosch

Having represented South Africa at the World Indoor Championships in Poland just a week ago, Manyonga is set for his second national championships since making his return from a four-year ban last year at the SA champs from 16-18 April.  

In 2025, he placed seventh in Potchefstroom in what was an emotional comeback to the sand pit, and now going back to where his journey first took flight, he is eager to reconnect with the Stellies crowd and rediscover his rhythm on home soil. 

"In Stellenbosch I will be jumping in my home soil – that is where I'm coming from, in the Western Cape, especially in Boland, so I will be having home advantage," said Manyonga.

"So I'm looking forward to doing some big jumps because I know I've been doing it in practice, it's just to get that proper day, being prepared like before time with no delays and stuff like that.

"Because most of my competitions there were like slight delays, even though I've been able to jump over 8m."

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The former Diamond League winner insists this moment is bigger than medals or titles, reflecting a journey of healing, faith, and rediscovery, with his focus not on podium finishes but on proving to himself that he still belongs among the best. 

"There's no such thing as late or early, if it happens on that day – whatever happens, I'll be happy because my comeback is more personal than getting medals or accolades," he added.

"Whatever comes with [competing] is a bonus for me because what I'm grateful for is that I'm making a story of my life, from where I come to where I am now. 

"For me to be wearing green and gold and representing my country, and to be able to jump in the National Champs, that's a win itself, and getting a medal is a bonus for me."