The year is coming to an end but Thembi Kgatlana is making big moves. The Banyana Banyana star is set to join Tigres Femenil in Liga MX in Mexico for a reported record six-figure deal. Kgatlana announced her departure from Racing Louisville on the team’s X account on Wednesday, 20 December 2023.
“While my time at Racing Louisville was short-lived, I am truly thankful to the fans and the people of Louisville for their support,” Kgatlana said in a media release.
“The affection and experience I received at the club will always be a big part of my life and career. I am sure we will cross paths again in the future.”
SA Striker Thembi Kgatlana, on her pro move to Liga MX in Mexico
According to a report by US online site The Equalizer, Kgatlana’s transfer fee was $275,000 (R5 million) and is the second-highest fee in the National Women’s Soccer League’s (NSWL) history.
The Mexican side will also receive 5% of her transfer fee in a sell-on clause, when the Banyana star leaves. Additionally, there is a further performance-based add-on should she score a certain amount of goals.
The former CAF Women’s Player of the Year joined the NWSL in the US after she left Atletico de Femenino in Spain. However, a torn Achilles saw her miss the 2022 season. She spent 10 months on the sidelines but Kgatlana soon became a fan and locker room favourite helping her team to its first knockout appearance in the UKG NWSL Challenge Cup.
“We want to wish Thembi all the best as she takes on a new challenge in Mexico,” said Racing general manager Ryan Dell on the club’s website.
“Naturally we are disappointed to lose such a talented player who is a great presence in our locker room, but we had extensive discussions with Thembi and completely respected her desire for this move. This is a life-changing opportunity for her and her family.”
It’s been a big year for Kgatlana on and off the field as she helped Banyana to their historic finish at the Women’s World Cup earlier this year. She also got engaged to her longtime partner Abongile Dlani.
Additionally, she published a book titled ‘Girls Don’t Do That’ which helps empower girls who want to play soccer. With everything that 2023 has brought for the maestro, 2024 is set to be another impressive year for Kgatlana.
Photo caption: The year is coming to an end but Thembi Kgatlana is making big moves. The Banyana Banyana star is set to join Tigres Femenil in Liga MX in Mexico for a reported record six-figure deal. Kgatlana announced her departure from Racing Louisville on the teams X account on Wednesday, 20 December 2023. Photo: Thembi Kgatlana on X
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