Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns winger Mahlatse Makudubela has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing the curtain down on a successful 17-year career.
The 36-year-old took to his official Instagram account on Thursday, 16 July, to announce his retirement, expressing his gratitude for a journey that saw him play the beautiful game both locally and internationally.
Makudubela’s football journey began in 2004 at the SAFA Transnet School of Excellence. Over nearly two decades, he established himself as a versatile and technically gifted player, representing some of the biggest clubs in South Africa before embarking on an extensive career abroad.
In South Africa, ‘Skudu’ turned out for teams like Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Platinum Stars, Chippa United, Highlands Park, University of Pretoria, Marumo Gallants, and Siwelele FC.
Meanwhile, overseas, he played for clubs such as Karviná FK [Czech Republic], FC Gagra [Georgia], Young Africans SC [Tanzania], AS Vita Club [DRC], Wiliete FC [Angola].
MAHLATSE MAKUDUBELA’S OFFICIAL STATEMENT
In his farewell message, Makudubela acknowledged every single team that played a part in his development and success.
“After 17 incredible years in Professional Football, today I announce my retirement from the professional game,” Makudubela wrote.
“From SAFA Transnet School of Excellence in 2004 to playing across South Africa, Czech Republic, Georgia, Tanzania, DRC and Angola — every jersey, every training session, every stadium has shaped me.
“My deepest gratitude to every club I represented… Thank you to every coach, teammate, physio, kit man, and supporter who believed in me. The wins, the losses, the MTN8, Telkom Cup, NBC Premier League titles — I carry them all with pride.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR MAHLATSE MAKUDUBELA?
Having won major silverware both domestically and on the continent—including the MTN8 and Telkom Knockout in South Africa, as well as league honours with Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC—Makudubela is not walking away from the beautiful game entirely.
Makudubela revealed that he will be transitioning into coaching for his next chapter.
“Football gave me everything. The discipline, brotherhood, and the love. The boots are hung up, and the coaching whistle is next. With love and gratitude,” he added.
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