It’s the first time the world record holder has been back in South Africa since winning the Olympic gold in Rio de Janeiro last month.

Van Niekerk as well as his coach, Ans Botha, and the South African 100m record holder, Akani Simbine, were greeted by thousands of screaming fans at the O.R. Tambo international airport, where there was major surprise waiting for the sprinter.

Van Niekerk was recently appointed as an AUDI ambassador and the German luxury car manufacturer handed the sprinter the keys to a brand new red R8 V10.

Van Niekerk said before his training resumes his wants to get to enjoy his new car.

 "I first need to go out and enjoy my car," said Van Niekerk

"Its holidays now so I'm going to have some fun in the car.

"Hopefully I don't get too many speeding fines, I'll have to get some traffic cop friends."

The sprinter also parted with a few useful words to young and aspiring sport stars in South Africa.

"It's very, very special, it's something that I feed off of is the young kids and the motivation I can give them.

"So simply don't just give up on your dreams. I started off here as well and I also look up to sports stars.

"Each and every one of has been blessed with talents and opportunities, they just have to take it."

Van Niekerk will receive a Hero’s welcome in Bloemfontein on Friday.

Morgan Piek OFM News

Photo: Ockert de Villiers / Twitter