Just weeks after announcing her international retirement following the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), South African football icon Jermaine Seoposenwe has lifted the lid on the hidden turmoil that pushed her to walk away from the national team.

In a heartfelt and revealing interview with renowned broadcaster Robert Marawa on 94.7, the 30-year-old C.F. Monterrey striker—who boasts 102 international caps and 20 goals—confirmed long-standing rumors about a toxic environment within the Banyana Banyana setup. Rather than a celebratory farewell after nearly two decades of national service, Jermaine’s exit has been clouded by controversy and disillusionment.

The former Olympian and World Cup pioneer cited SAFA’s systemic neglect and lack of respect for players as central to her decision. “We had to fight for everything—basic resources, dignity, even recognition,” she revealed. Most shockingly, she confirmed that during WAFCON 2024, players were forced to stage a boycott due to unresolved disputes with the federation.

While coach Desiree Ellis and her squad were focused on defending their 2022 title, Jermaine was silently battling an inner war. “I haven’t been happy in the national team for a long time,” she confessed. For her, stepping away wasn’t a choice—it was survival.

Jermaine’s revelations have sent ripples across the African football community, shining a spotlight on the urgent need for reform and accountability within women’s football structures in South Africa.