The internet has been abuzz after award-winning sports broadcaster and SuperSport TV anchor, Motshidisi Mohono, announced her pregnancy.
The news, shared with her followers on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), has sparked a wave of mixed reactions, with some expressing joy and congratulations while others, particularly those who held her as their "sports crush," are grappling with a sense of loss.
Mohono, known for her captivating presence on screen and her infectious enthusiasm for sports, posted a picture from what appears to be a maternity photoshoot, accompanied by the caption "Modimo, kea leboha," which translates to "God, I thank you."
On X, Mohono shared a heartwarming moment, quoting a tweet she had posted in August last year, where she wrote, "I can't wait to be a mom." The post, paired with the same image from her Instagram, clearly indicated that she was embracing motherhood with excitement.
While several supporters and fellow prominent figures, including Springbok player Ox Nche and fellow broadcaster Carol Tshabalala, took to social media to wish Mohono well and congratulate her, the comments section was flooded with a surprising outpouring of disappointment.
The internet, it seems, takes its "sports crushes" very seriously, and Mohono's pregnancy announcement has, for some, compromised her position as a coveted figure.
Users took to Twitter, expressing their feelings in a variety of ways, from playful objections to heartfelt expressions of sadness.
"Objection your honour!" tweeted Zol (@Zolisa041), expressing a sense of disbelief and perhaps a touch of humour.
Others used emojis to convey their disappointment. "😔" tweeted Tommy Shelby's Burner (@Karabo_XCVII) accompanied by a picture of a sad face.
Fana Richy Mtshali (@RichardMtshali) tweeted, "🥲 my day to uncrush, congrats," acknowledging the end of an era for some while still offering congratulations.
One user, perhaps in a moment of desperation, asked, "I can still shoot my shot though right?" This comment highlights the intense feelings some fans have towards Mohono, and the sense of loss they feel at the prospect of her being unavailable.
The reactions to Mohono's pregnancy announcement highlight the complex relationship between celebrities and their fans. While many are genuinely happy for Mohono and excited for her journey into motherhood, others are struggling to reconcile their feelings of admiration with the reality of her changing status.