New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce is today being hailed as Bermuda's hero after his team's last gasp Super Bowl win against the New England Patriots.

After the wildcard New York Giants caused arguably the biggest upset in NFL history on Sunday by ruining the Patriots' perfect season, other Bermudian sports stars have added their voices to a chorus of congratulations as Antonio is hailed a national hero.

Pierce, is the first Bermudian to play in the prestigious event and the second Bermudian behind Ralph (Rocky) Thompson to wear a Giants uniform. His father, Cleo Burrows, lives in Southampton.

Sports Minister, El James switched his support from his longtime favourite team, Patriots, to support Mr. Pierce and the Giants and said: "

"Antonio is a national hero at the moment. The Super Bowl is not a small event and to see a Bermudian playing on the big stage definitely gave me a certain amount of pride and even more so to see him come out a winner.

Former Manchester City footballer, Shaun Goater also congratulated Pierce and the Giants.

"What I want to say is, a lot of people would see that game and think that's the big finale if you like, but a lot of people would not know the disappointment and hurdles along the way. Only he and his family would know the real sacrifice he has made. Now he is receiving accolades and rewards."

He continued: "All I can say is knowing slightly what it takes to make that sacrifice to make any sort of significant progress and to get to such a level, I say well done. He has made a lot of Bermudians proud because it shows for such a small island, we're able to get to the highest of levels in different sports. So well done to him."

Football legend, Clyde Best said: "Congratulations with a fantastic feat. The team played like champions and that's why they are champions. Great for him, great for his family and great for the city of New York."

Green Bay Packers fan, Vernal Durham said: "Antonio has helped put Bermuda on the map and hopefully our youngsters will look to him as a source of inspiration in pursuit of their own goals."

Rolfe Commissiong, a friend of Pierce's father Burrows, said: "I am very happy with the Giants winning especially for the fact that we had a Bermudian, Antonio Pierce, playing such an important role in the team."

He continued: "I've known Antonio's father since I was a young boy and every time I see him, he reminds me of his father. I think Antonio has grown up to be a fine young man and not just an excellent athlete."