Former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs star Siphiwe Tshabalala has confirmed to Sunday World that the announcement of his retirement from professional football is imminent.
Like many other South African football legends, such as Itumeleng Khune, Tshabalala has delayed the long-awaited announcement that he will be hanging up his boots but has since hinted that it is imminent.
“I haven’t announced my retirement from football yet, but at some point, the announcement will come. Whether sooner or later, at some point, that announcement will come,” Tshabalala said recently.
Overwhelming support
“Because I think I owe it [retirement announcement] to the public, the media, the fans, and everyone. …And I say that with great humility. Because of the support that I received throughout my career, it was overwhelming.
“Therefore, it is important for me to announce my exit when that time comes. But for now, my heart is just full, and I can even announce my retirement now [last Saturday].”
Tshabalala, who is now 40, last played competitive football in June 2021 while at AmaZulu FC. Prior to that, he had spent over a year without a club after his season-long stay at Turkish club Erzurumspor FK. This is at the back of his 11-and-a-half-year spell at Chiefs.
The former Amakhosi star, apart from his accolades at the Soweto giants, will largely be remembered for his famous 2010 FIFA World Cup opening wonder goal for Bafana Bafana.
Tshabalala is currently involved in various development programmes through his foundation. The latest one is the “Baked for Greatness with Shabba” campaign in partnership with popular baking company Albany.
“I am in the right space right now because I am spending most of my time helping the next generation. And I think that would be my greatest legacy … the lives that I have touched,”
Giving back
“And for me, when I see someone thriving and achieving their dreams, it is a victory for a black child. Especially those who come from places where they never thought their dreams would come to light.
“I usually say to the youngsters that through this platform, your dreams are valid. Don’t be defined by your background, and football is a story of hope. So, we are in this space to serve on and off the field,” he added.
