Midfielder Robyn Moodaly announced her decision to step away from representing Banyana Banyana to 'take care of her mental well-being' shortly after competing in the FIFA Women's World Cup.
READ | 'The whole of South Africa should be proud' - Ellis
Moodaly announced on her official X account, formerly Twitter, that she was making the difficult decision to step away from Desiree Ellis' side, but will still compete at club level.
— Robyn Kimberly Moodaly (@RobynMoodaly) October 12, 2023
"Today is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude. It is with a heavy heart that I would like to inform you all that I will be stepping away from the South African National Women’s Team – Banyana Banyana," a statement read.
"My decision is a personal choice and is rooted in my commitment to taking care of my mental well-being.
"I will continue to play football at a club level, with my love and passion for the game remaining unchanged. I am committed to continuously improving and growing within my career for as long as possible and welcoming new opportunities that may lie ahead.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my coaches and teammates who have been a part of my journey, you have all had a profound impact on my career, and I am forever grateful for the support and guidance you have provided.
"To my fans and supporters, thank you for your unwavering support and for always rallying behind us as we took to the field, representing our country with pride and passion. Your encouragement and enthusiasm have meant the world to me.
"To my family who have supported me throughout my journey I appreciate all your sacrifices you’ve made to help me achieve my goals and thank you for always standing by me.
"I wish the team all the best in their future endeavours, and I will continue to support them as a proud fan for now."
Moodaley had previously urged supporters to take the women's game more seriously after Banyana's recent record-setting achievements.
Banyana were crowned Women's Africa Cup of Nations champions and reached the knockout stages in Australasia.
"The biggest thing is we need to stop comparing men and women," Moodaly said.
"When we go out and we give our all and we get success from it and not just to prove to anyone and to compare us to men but to actually go and put in the work.
“The challenges that we are facing is that is about being taken seriously and not getting undermined because we are women, that comes with the industry.
"We are urging everyone to take us seriously, I can list the tournaments we have qualified for, we won the WAFCON, how much more must we do to be taken seriously?”
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