See how struggling ex Sundowns star lost it all

Former Mamelodi Sundowns player Rodney Ramagalela struggles over the past four years speak volumes to his resilience as a human. The 34-year-old, who buried his father in April after a short illness, went through tough times, losing his mother and daughter in 2019. Additionally, a fire destroyed his house in Mamvuka, Limpopo, a few days before Christmas in 2021.

In addition to the tragic losses in his family, the footballer suffered career-threatening injuries, leading to surgeries and extended breaks from the sport.

“For the past five years, there has always been something major happening in my life. It’s either someone has passed on or I am going through an operation, for five years,” Ramagalela has said as quoted by FARpost

The challenges have taken a toll on his career as well. Following the expiration of his short-term contract at the University of Pretoria, where he featured nine times and scored once, Ramagalela is seeking a new chapter in his football journey.

Amidst his struggles, Ramagalela not only opens up about his personal problems but also highlights the broader issue of mental health within the football community.

He believes that many of his peers are grappling with similar problems but are reluctant to address them directly due to pride.

“[Mental Health] is a disease that needs to be sorted out immediately. The pressure itself of playing football is too much and there are so many expectations,” Ramagalela remarked.

What we can learn from Rodney Ramagalela

Ramagalela’s story serves as a reminder of the human side of sports and the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health challenges within the footballing community.

Also Read: SuperSport United Secure Victory Against Al Hilal Benghazi