Kaizer Chiefs Star Siphiwe Tshabalala Breaks Silence on Retirement Plans
South African football legend Siphiwe Tshabalala has revealed that the long-anticipated announcement of his retirement from professional football is on the horizon.
Speaking to Sunday World, the former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs star expressed heartfelt gratitude to fans and said he feels it is important to formally announce the end of his playing career after years of support.
“I haven’t announced my retirement from football yet, but at some point, the announcement will come,” he said. “Whether sooner or later, at some point, that announcement will come.”
“I Owe It to the Public and the Media” — Tshabalala
Tshabalala, now 40, has not played competitively since his stint with AmaZulu FC ended in 2021. Before that, he was briefly with Turkish side Erzurumspor FK after spending more than a decade with Kaizer Chiefs.
“Because I think I owe it [the retirement announcement] to the public, the media, the fans, and everyone. I say that with great humility,” he said. “Because of the support that I received throughout my career, it was overwhelming.”
He added that his heart felt full and that he could have announced his retirement on the spot during last Saturday’s event.
From Wonder Goal to Legacy Building
Tshabalala’s name remains etched in the hearts of football fans worldwide for his unforgettable opening goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup — a thunderbolt against Mexico that marked a historic moment for South Africa.
Though his boots may be nearing the shelf, Tshabalala remains active through his foundation, spearheading youth development initiatives. His latest project, “Baked for Greatness with Shabba,” is a partnership with Albany Bread aimed at empowering aspiring young athletes.
“Football Is a Story of Hope” — Shabba Now Focused on Uplifting the Next Generation
Reflecting on his post-football life, Tshabalala says he finds joy and fulfilment in inspiring the next generation.
“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,” he shared.
“Football is a story of hope. So, we are in this space to serve — on and off the field.”
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The post “My Heart Is Full”: Kaizer Chiefs Star Siphiwe Tshabalala Breaks Silence on Retirement Plans appeared first on iHarare News.
