Ex-Bafana Bafana skipper confirms retirement after taking Safpu Presidency

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Ex-Bafana Bafana skipper confirms retirement after taking Safpu Presidency
CAIRO, EGYPT - JUNE 24: South Africa team photo, bottom from left: Lebohang Kgosana Maboe, Percy Muzi Tau, Dean Furman, Themba Zwane, Kamohelo Mokotjo, Lebo Mothiba top row: Sandile S fiso Hlanti, Ronwen Hayden Williams, Thulani Hlatshwayo, Buhlebuyeza Willson Mkhwanazi, Thamsanqa Innocent Mkhize during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Group D match between Cote d Ivoire and South Africa at Al-Salam Stadium on June 24, 2019 in Cairo, Cote d Ivoire v South Africa:Group D - 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Copyright: xSebastianxFrejx

Newly appointed South African Football Players Union (Safpu) president Thulani Hlatshwayo has officially called time on his professional playing career, closing the chapter on one of the most decorated journeys in South African football.

The former Bafana Bafana captain, Hlatshwayo confirmed his decision in an interview with Sunday World at Safpu’s Johannesburg offices on Monday.

“I knew this question was coming,” he said with a smile.

“I spoke to our Secretary General [Nhlanhla Shabalala] about how we’d manage everything. He explained clearly that this role comes with day-to-day responsibilities. That’s why I have a deputy president [Terrence Mashego] and second vice president [Kholosa Biyana], who are still active players.”

Dual Role Impossible

The 36-year-old admitted that balancing the presidency with playing was simply not feasible.

“Unfortunately, I can’t be active as a player and president at the same time. So I am officially retired.”

South Africa v Namibia – 2019 African Cup of Nations
Thulani Hlatshwayo Copyright: IMAGO

A Glittering Career

Hlatshwayo hangs up his boots as one of the most respected defenders in the Premier Soccer League. He represented Ajax Cape Town, Bidvest Wits, Orlando Pirates, and SuperSport United, captaining every club he played for.

His crowning achievement came in 2017, when he led Bidvest Wits to their first-ever PSL title under coach Gavin Hunt. He also lifted the MTN8 trophy and featured in multiple CAF competitions.

On the international stage, Hlatshwayo earned over 50 caps for Bafana Bafana, captaining the national team and scoring in the famous 2-0 win over Nigeria in Uyo during the 2019 AFCON qualifiers. Known for his leadership and tenacity, he was a mainstay in South Africa’s defense for nearly a decade.

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Thulani Hlatshwayo Copyright: imago/Gallo Images

An Emotional Decision

The former skipper admitted the decision was far from easy.

“This was emotional, but I had to make a choice. I didn’t just accept this position, I thought long and hard, especially when it was explained that I couldn’t play and lead Safpu at the same time.

“Football changed my life and my family’s life. I’ll still be active in the game because not all of us will become coaches or analysts. There are other ways to give back.”

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.

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