Thandani Ntshumayelo, a former midfielder for Orlando Pirates, has opened up about his early retirement from football and his current pursuits.
During his peak years with the Buccaneers, Ntshumayelo faced a significant setback. He tested positive for cocaine, leading to a four-year ban that was later reduced in 2018.
In an attempt to revive his career, Ntshumayelo signed a short-term deal with Baroka FC in the 2018/19 season. The following season, he went on to pen a deal with Moroka Swallows and left them in 2021.
Ntshumayelo admits he rushed his return to football before being mentally prepared. With things not turning out as expected, he decided to retire early.
Now at 34, Ntshumayelo has embarked on a new chapter, pursuing a Higher Certificate in Law at the University of South Africa [UNISA].
THANDANI NTSHUMAYELO STUDYING LAW AT UNISA
“I went back to school, I’m studying again, I’m doing LLB High qualification. I’m studying Law now,” said Ntshumayelo.
“I’m studying in Unisa, started this year.
“I’m good now, it took me long it’s not easy. You have to go the psychologists, these things are important, mental health.
“I rushed going back [to football], that’s why maybe somethings didn’t go well. The money was no longer the same again.
“That’s why I took a decision to retire early.”
Ntshumayelo also offered valuable advice to current footballers, urging them to respect their careers and appreciate the journey that led them to their success.
‘RESPECT WHAT PUTS BREAD ON THE TABLE’
“In life, we do make mistakes, and don’t be scared to make mistakes,” he added.
“You will grow from them. Make mistakes, even if you happen to fall, don’t give up that’s how life is.
“If you don’t pick yourself up, no one will. You need to do it for yourself.
“And what I can say is you have to respect what puts bread on the table. That’s the most important thing.
“We also take it for granted as football players. It’s hard to get where you are and then you give your career away just like that.”
RELATED STORY: Ntshumayelo reveals best player he’s ever played with in PSL
