Defender Thulani ‘Tyson’ Hlatshwayo has officially retired from
professional football, concluding a distinguished 15-year career built on
grit and unwavering leadership. The Soweto-born star now steps into a new
role as President of the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU).
Making his debut for Ajax Cape Town in 2009, Hlatshwayo forged a reputation
as a formidable and committed centre-back. His ‘Tyson’ moniker, earned for
his tenacious style, reflected his approach throughout a journey that saw
him captain every club he played for—Ajax Cape Town, Bidvest Wits, and
Orlando Pirates—before ultimately leading the South African national team,
Bafana Bafana.
His career honours include winning the PSL title and Telkom Knockout with
Bidvest Wits, and securing the MTN8 trophy with Orlando Pirates. After last
featuring for SuperSport United, Hlatshwayo’s on-field chapter closes,
turning the page from a playing career defined by defensive steel and
inspirational presence.
His legacy is one of perseverance, tracing a path from the streets of Soweto
to the armband of his national team. As he transitions into football
administration, Hlatshwayo leaves an indelible mark of hard work and
leadership, poised to make a different kind of impact from the boardroom.
