Shock retirement: Banyana Banyana star to hang up boots after WAFCON

In a surprising announcement on Monday evening, veteran Banyana Banyana forward Jermaine Seoposenwe has declared her decision to retire from international football after the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

WAFCON, set to be staged in Morocco, scheduled for July 5th to 26th, 2025, will be the last time Seoposenwe wears the Banyana jersey as a player.

The 31-year-old Seoposenwe, who currently plays for Rayadas Monterrey Femenil in Mexico, can look back on a distinguished career with the South African Women’s National Team.

She was an integral part of the Banyana squad that made history by winning South Africa’s first-ever WAFCON title in 2022, where she netted crucial goals against Nigeria and Tunisia.

Her impactful performances were a cornerstone of coach Desiree Ellis’s successful team. Beyond continental glory, Seoposenwe also proudly represented her country at two FIFA Women’s World Cups.

Seoposenwe shared her decision and reflections in a heartfelt instagram post. “Let me start by saying thank you, South Africa, for the opportunity to represent you. It was truly a privilege and an honour to walk onto that field and represent the beautiful people of this country with passion and pride,” she wrote.

She acknowledged that the news might come as a shock to many, but explained that the idea of stepping away has been on her mind for a while. “As I continue to evolve as a human being and a footballer, it has become more evident to me that this is the best decision for my well-being,” she stated.

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A post shared by Jermaine Seoposenwe (@jseoposenwe)

Seoposenwe’s message also touched upon her journey and dedication to the sport. “As a young girl growing up in South Africa playing football, my dream was always to play for Banyana Banyana. When that dream became a reality, I started working even harder to become one of the best to ever represent my country.”

She spoke of the immense sacrifices required to achieve her goals: “I wanted to achieve things with Banyana Banyana that no one had ever done before. But that dream demanded great sacrifice and dedication. It demanded years of heartache, tears, and disappointment. It demanded an even greater character and an unbreakable mentality.”

Driven by this unwavering commitment, Seoposenwe pushed herself to her limits. “I truly believe that I put my heart and soul into representing my country, and I’m proud of what I have achieved,” she affirmed.

Expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to her career, Seoposenwe concluded her statement by looking to the future of South African women’s football. “But my time has come to an end, and I’m passing the torch to the next generation.”

Seoposenwe offered an inspiring message to the upcoming players: “May you continue to break boundaries. May you continue to fight for change. May you continue to set an example for the little girls watching you. And most importantly, may you continue to bring immense joy to the people of this beautiful country.”

In addition, she extended her thanks to her family and the people of South Africa for their unwavering support throughout her illustrious career.