Former Olympic swimmer Roland Schoeman – who is now a US citizen – has appealed to his adoptive country to help his country of birth, South Africa, amid growing concerns over political unrest.
The 44-year-old is now a real estate agent based in Arizona.
Over the past week, US President Donald Trump and his “right-hand man” Elon Musk have questioned the country’s race-based laws. Like Roland, Elon was born in SA.
ROLAND SCHOEMAN CALLS ON US FOR HELP
On his X app, Roland Schoeman called on the US to assist desperate South Africans.
“We need help in South Africa urgently,” he replied to US Senator Ted Cruz, who voiced his opinions on SA’s “concerning decisions.” This included the country’s decision to remove the Taiwanese embassy – an “ally” to the US – from their headquarters in Pretoria.
In other tweets, Roland tagged the world’s richest man – Elon Musk – to ask him where USAID funds were distributed in SA. He also questioned political parties, citing corruption and racism.
“It’s easier to blame the past than to confront the failures of today,” he tweeted.
Roland Schoeman’s strong views of politics in South Africa received much criticism from X users who demanded he “stick to swimming.” Others called for Roland’s gold Olympic medals to be revoked.
Roland responded to each tweet with a stinging clapback…
“The sheer absurdity of suggesting my gold medal—earned through relentless hard work, representing South Africa on the world stage—can somehow be “revoked” only highlights your lack of understanding. You’re clearly more comfortable attacking achievements than addressing the very real corruption and failures devastating the country.”
“I still spend up to 6 months a year in South Africa with friends, family, and various business interests.”
“Born and raised South African. South African passport. South African business interests. Nothing you say will stop this.”
MOVING TO AMERICA
In the last decade, Roland Schoeman was found guilty of doping, retired from professional swimming, and moved to the US, where he pursued a career as a real estate agent.
He now holds dual citizenship.
“I am proud to call myself a South African,” he shared in an Instagram post.
DO SOUTH AFRICANS WHO HAVE EMMIGRATED LIKE ROLAND SCHOEMAN HAVE A RIGHT TO CRITICISE THE COUNTRY?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to060 011 021 1.
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