Former Banyana Banyana star Jermaine Seoposenwe has sent shockwaves through the South African football community after revealing that her decision to retire from international football was not entirely her own. The 31-year-old forward, who has been a vital figure in the national setup for over 15 years, claims a toxic culture within the South African Football Association (SAFA) and the national team coaching staff left her with no choice but to step away.
A Career of Dedication and Service
Seoposenwe made 112 appearances and scored 20 goals for South Africa over her illustrious international career. From playing in youth tournaments to representing Banyana Banyana at multiple Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaigns, she has been one of the team’s most consistent and influential players.
Her final appearance came at the recent WAFCON tournament in Morocco, where South Africa finished fourth after losing to Nigeria in the semi-final and Ghana in the third-place playoff.
“I Wasn’t Happy Anymore”- Jermaine Seoposenwe
In an emotional interview with MSW on 947, Seoposenwe spoke candidly about the emotional toll her national team experience had taken on her in recent years.
“It’s tough to walk away from my teammates, from the people of South Africa, and the support I’ve received over the years. But I haven’t been happy in the national team for a long time,” she revealed.
She described feeling like a “shell” of herself when on international duty and explained how the contrast between her club environment in Mexico and the national team setup became increasingly stark.
“In Mexico, I feel happy, vibrant, like myself. But in the national team, I don’t even recognise who I am anymore.”
A Toxic Culture Behind the Scenes?
While her public comments pointed to emotional burnout and dissatisfaction, Seoposenwe later posted on X (formerly Twitter) suggesting that her departure was not purely personal. She pointed fingers directly at the South African Football Association and the current coaching environment under head coach Desiree Ellis and her technical team.
“SAFA and the coaching department forced me into this decision,” she posted, implying deeper systemic issues within the national setup.
Although Seoposenwe did not go into full detail, the allegation hints at internal conflicts and an environment that may not have supported senior players adequately or respectfully.
A Loss for South African Football
Her retirement marks the end of an era for Banyana Banyana. As one of the few players with both longevity and international club experience, her absence leaves a significant gap not just on the pitch but as a voice for change and leadership.
Seoposenwe expressed regret that her performances in recent call-ups were not up to her personal standard and stated she would rather step away than continue to force herself to play in an environment that no longer brought her joy.
“I love this game so much, but I could feel myself growing resentful. That’s not who I am, and I didn’t want to lose that love.”
With her focus now fully on her club career in Mexico, Seoposenwe says she is regaining her passion for the sport, a passion she felt slipping away in the Banyana Banyana camp.
Her story brings to light the often-unspoken emotional and cultural challenges athletes face behind the scenes. It also raises critical questions for SAFA and the national team leadership about how experienced players are treated and supported.
As South African women’s football continues to grow, the hope is that voices like Seoposenwe’s are not dismissed but heard and taken seriously not just for her sake, but for the future of the game in the country.
Related article: Banyana Banyana’s WAFCON Hopes Shattered in Dying Minutes
