However, former South African spinner Paul Adams questioned why Williamson didn't walk when he was caught behind from Imran Tahir's bowling.
Read more:
Match report: Black Caps beat South Africa in dramatic finish
Napier: Kane Williamson's heroics against South Africa were great, but World Cup dream still some way off
The Proteas did not even launch a proper appeal in a truly bizarre World Cup moment which may have ended their tournament. Williamson, on 76 at the time, went on to make a match-winning century.
New Zealand have won praise for leading a healthier attitude to the game, dubbed the 'spirit of cricket', in recent years. But whether batsmen should walk or not when they know they are out - as Williamson would have - remains a complicated issue.
CricInfo described South Africa as "error-prone".
"South Africa came well and truly a cropper against Ken Williamson's cool and Colin de Grandhomme's muscle."
South Africa spilled several chances in the field - and would have had Williamson caught behind in the 70s had they used their review - wilting under the pressure as New Zealand secured their fifth World Cup victory over them.
South Africa's SuperSport also lavished praise on "classy" Williamson which "set the tone for more Proteas misery".
And IOL said Williamson and de Grandhomme had helped New Zealand "shatter Proteas World Cup dreams".
Indian great VVS Laxman praised Williamson and New Zealand.
The Alternative Commentary Collective are podcasting their way through the World Cup. Known for their unconventional sports analysis and off-kilter banter, the ACC have come to ask the tough questions. Here's the latest episode of 'The Agenda':
WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT
