South African Football Association (SAFA) have expressed their support for Banyana Banyana star Robyn Moodaly, who announced on Thursday that she was stepping away from the national side to take care of her mental health.
“Today (Thursday) is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude,” Moodaly said in a statement on social media.
“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. My decision is a personal choice and rooted in my commitment to taking care of my mental well-being.”
SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao commented on Moodaly’s decision to focus on her mental health, saying: “Robyn is a national asset, and as SAFA we will support her all the way. We also need to commend her bravery in coming out and sharing her thoughts because most athletes are suffering in silence. The mental wellness of athletes is a global challenge and we will help Robyn in whatever way she wants us to. We want to wish her all the best.”
Banyana head coach Desire Ellis also expressed her support for Moodaly, saying: “I am glad to see that she’s taking charge of her mental health, and that she’s come out and spoken about it because it is real, and we will support her as much as we can.”
Moodaly, who has been a part of the Banyana Banyana squad since 2013, thanked her teammates, coaches, and SAFA for their support throughout her career. “I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have represented my country and to have been part of a team that has achieved so much,” she said.
“I will continue to support the team in any way I can and I wish them all the best for the future.”
