Ex-Mamelodi Sundowns star officially calls time on illustrious playing career after 23 years

Vuyo Mere, the former Bafana Bafana, Mamelodi Sundowns, and most recently TS Galaxy defender, has officially hung up his boots.

He took to Instagram on Wednesday, 4 June, to share an emotional message confirming his retirement and bringing the curtain down on a remarkable playing career.

“To all the people, fans, supporters and the whole football fraternity at large. I, Vuyo Calvin Mere, wish to extend my deepest and humblest gratitude to all of you for the support and love y’all showed me right through my career,” Mere shared on Instagram.

“It’s been an amazing 23 years of professional football, which was filled with lots of great and bad memories. I just wanna thank my God for the great opportunity, good health, protection and a willing heart to respect my career and everyone around it.

“I wanna thank everyone who contributed to my amazing career, which started in the dusty streets of Bloemfontein, playing for City Leopards, UK Babies, Liverpool FC, Mangaung United, and finally making my way to the Hellenic academy,” he continued.

“I have won many trophies right through my career and played with the most talented players across the continent, and it’s all because God and my ancestors made it possible, and I am truly grateful.

“To all the teams that gave me an opportunity to showcase my talent, Hellenic, Sundowns, Moroka Swallows, Platinum Stars, Bidvest Wits and TS Galaxy – I just wanna thank you all for the memories created, they will forever be tattooed in my heart,” he concluded.

At 41, Mere’s professional journey began back in 2001 with Hellenic, before rising to prominence during a successful spell at Mamelodi Sundowns from 2004 to 2011. 

He then went on to spend seven solid seasons with Platinum Stars. From 2018 onward, he continued to make his mark with stints at Bidvest Wits, where he clinched the Premier Soccer League title, Moroka Swallows and finally, the Rockets.

Having already dipped his toes into coaching with a brief stint as an assistant before stepping down and parting ways with TS Galaxy, Mere’s next chapter could still lie within the game.

Whether he pursues coaching full-time, takes on a mentorship role, or explores opportunities in football development, his wealth of experience and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to South African football off the pitch.