Kgaogelo Sekgota, the former Kaizer Chiefs and current Magesi FC winger, has checked into a rehabilitation centre in Limpopo after struggling with marijuana use. The 27-year-old footballer, once hailed as a rising star in South African football, is now taking a step back from the pitch to focus on his personal well-being.
Sekgota’s admission to the Hope of Achievers Rehabilitation Centre comes at a crucial point in his career. After leaving Kaizer Chiefs in 2023, he had brief stints with Stellenbosch FC before settling at Magesi FC, where he contributed to the club’s victory in the Carling Knockout Cup. His performances on the field had reportedly caught the attention of a Moroccan football club, opening doors to an international move. Unfortunately, this opportunity has now been put on hold due to his current rehabilitation journey.
Watson Luandi, CEO of the Hope of Achievers Rehabilitation Centre, confirmed Sekgota’s admission and offered insights into his condition. Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Luandi addressed the swirling rumors, noting that while Sekgota is not battling hard drug addiction, his use of marijuana required professional intervention.
“This is a manageable issue,” Luandi explained. “With the proper support, Sekgota is making promising progress. He is determined to get his life back on track, both on and off the field.”
Sekgota is not alone in his recovery journey. He is joined at the facility by two other professional footballers—former Bafana Bafana midfielder Lerato Chabangu and Yamkela Phalane. The Hope of Achievers Centre, in collaboration with the NKRL Foundation, works to support athletes through life’s setbacks and aims to help them reintegrate into professional environments with dignity and resilience.
Luandi praised the NKRL Foundation for its crucial role, stating, “Our mission is to rebuild not just careers, but lives. Players are under immense pressure, and they often suffer in silence. We are here to change that.”
Though Magesi FC has yet to issue a formal statement regarding Sekgota’s status, it’s been confirmed that he remains under contract with the club. His family, alongside the rehabilitation staff, remains hopeful that the Moroccan club’s interest can be revived once Sekgota has made a full recovery.
“There’s still a lot of potential in him,” said Luandi. “He’s young and has time to turn things around. This doesn’t have to be the end of his story.”
Sekgota’s case highlights the intense personal challenges many professional athletes face behind the scenes. Fame, pressure, and expectations can take a toll on even the most talented individuals. Yet, with the right support systems and rehabilitation, recovery is always possible.
As Sekgota focuses on his treatment, fans and football officials alike are hoping for a triumphant return. Whether he resumes his career in South Africa or abroad, his resilience may become the defining chapter of his journey.