The all-time great An Orlando Pirates player announced his retirement due to his wife
Thandani Ntshumayelo, a former midfielder for Bafana Bafana, the Orlando Pirates, and SuperSport United, has declared his retirement from sport.
After joining the Buccaneers from SuperSport in 2012, the 33-year-old played nearly 100 games there during the bulk of his career.
However, in 2016, after testing positive for cocaine, “Bibo,” as he is fondly known, was banned from the game. When he finally returned in 2018, he found it difficult to adjust, spending time at Baroka and Swallows.
The two-cap member of the national team, Ntshumayelo, announced his decision to end his playing career in a statement on Thursday.
The athlete shared on social media: “I’ve chosen to formally announce my retirement from football with immediate effect after great consideration and extensive consultation with my family.
I didn’t make this decision lightly because football has always played a significant role in my life. I consider myself fortunate to have achieved my goal of playing professional football.
“I will always be appreciative of everything you have done for me, SuperSport United family, who gave me my big chance to become a professional at the age of 18.
“I would like to express my gratitude to Stan Matthews, CEO of SuperSport, Godfrey Mosoetsa, Kwanele Kopo, and coach Gavin Hunt, who not only helped me through tough times but also took on the role of a father figure in my life.
“A particular thank you to the aunties who looked after us and the SuperSport United academy staff. Representing the Orlando Pirates, one of the biggest clubs in Africa, was also an honor.
“I would like to thank Dr. Irvin Khoza for providing me with the chance to represent this significant university because of this. I will always treasure the opportunity I had to compete for the badge and wear the Orlando Pirates jersey.
“To my former teammates, I’m grateful for our enduring memories and our fraternity.
“I also want to express my gratitude to my partner and parents, who have supported me through good times and bad. Without your love and support, I would not be the guy I am today.
“I adore you, Leano, and you motivate me to strive for greater qualities in myself. A special thank you to Tim Sukazi and my former teams, Swallows FC and Baroka. You cannot imagine how much your support means to me, supporters. I will never give up on football, and our paths will inevitably meet again.”
