Lucas Radebe is a South African football icon whose career has extended beyond the confines of the sport. Radebe’s journey from modest origins in the Diepkloof township to the prominent stages of European football is one of resilience, leadership, and extraordinary accomplishment. In this article, we will look at Lucas Radebe’s early years, spectacular career, personal life, awards and accomplishments that have solidified his reputation.
Lucas Radebe Net Worth
| Nickname: | Rhoo, The Chief |
| Real Name: | Lucas Valeriu Ntuba Radebe |
| Net Worth: | $13 million |
| Birthplace: | Diepkloof, Soweto |
| Weight: | 74 kg |
| Sexual Orientation: | Straight |
| Marital Status: | Married |
| Spouse: | Thobela Silver |
| Children: | Ofentse Radebe, Lucas Jr. Radebe, Jessica Radebe, Owami Radebe |
| Girlfriend: | None |
| Date of Birth: | April 12, 1969 |
| Gender: | Male |
| Height: | 1.80 m |
| Profession: | Former professional footballer |
| Nationality: | South African |
| Source of Wealth: | Football |
| Education: | Bopasenatla Secondary School |
| Father: | Johannes Radebe |
| Mother: | Emily Radebe |
| Brother: | 6 |
| Sister: | 4 |
Early Years
Lucas Radebe was born April 12, 1969, in the Diepkloof neighborhood of Soweto, near Johannesburg, as one of eleven children. His parents sent him to Bopasenatla Secondary School to keep him safe from the violence in his community.
Career
Radebe’s football career began with the Kaizer Chiefs, where he started as a goalie before moving to central midfield and then central defense. His outstanding defensive talents and leadership characteristics rapidly made him a fan favorite, earning him the moniker “The Chief.” His flexibility and dedication drew the attention of Leeds United, who signed him in 1994.
Radebe’s effect at Leeds United has progressively grown. Initially, he struggled, but under manager George Graham, he thrived. As captain, he helped Leeds win the FA Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. Interestingly, he declined offers from Manchester United, A.C. Milan, and Roma.
Lucas Radebe debuted for the South African national team on July 7, 1992, against Cameroon. Despite recuperating from a long-term knee ailment, he helped South Africa win the African Cup of Nations in 1996. Radebe led the South African squad in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups, however they did not advance past the group stages in either event.
He scored a goal during the 2002 World Cup. Radebe received 70 caps and scored two goals throughout his international career, which ended on May 22, 2003, against England. After retiring, Radebe played an important part in South Africa’s successful bid to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
He also served as a commentator for South African television networks, providing insight during ITV’s coverage of the event.
Personal Life
Lucas Radebe’s life has been marked by generosity, activism, and dedication to social change. He has been a strong supporter of a variety of humanitarian initiatives, notably those focused at improving South Africa’s poor neighborhoods.
He married his first wife, Feziwe, and they had two children. She died from cancer in October 2008. Radebe wedded his second wife Thobela Silver in 2015. They have 2 children.
Awards and Achievements
Lucas Radebe’s list of medals and accolades is both spectacular and vast, demonstrating his outstanding contributions to the world of football. Among his most prominent achievements are several PFA Team of the Year selections, the FIFA Fair Play Award in 2000, and admission into the English Football Hall of Fame and is now regarded as a legend in South African football. In May 2010, he received the PFA Merit Award for his contributions to football. Kaizer Chiefs won three championships: 1989, 1991, and 1992.
Radebe’s impact extends beyond sports, as evidenced by his receipt of honors such as the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, a prestigious award bestowed by the South African government for excellence in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lucas Radebe
1. Who is Lucas Radebe?
Radebe is a former South African professional footballer who gained prominence as a highly respected defender during his illustrious career.
2. When was Lucas Radebe born?
Radebe was born on April 12, 1969, in Diepkloof, Soweto, South Africa.
3. What teams did Lucas Radebe play for?
Radebe notably played for Kaizer Chiefs in South Africa before making a successful move to Leeds United in the English Premier League.
4. What position did Lucas Radebe play?
Radebe primarily played as a central defender throughout his career.
5. What are some of Lucas Radebe’s career highlights?
Radebe’s career highlights include captaining both Leeds United and the South African national team, earning multiple PFA Team of the Year selections, and winning the FIFA Fair Play Award.
6. Who are Lucas Radebe’s parents?
His father is Johannes Radebe, and his mother is Emily Radebe.
7. What positions did Radebe play during his career?
Radebe began his career as a goalkeeper for Kaizer Chiefs. Later, he switched to central midfield and eventually settled as a central defender.
8. What nicknames did Radebe acquire during his career?
He was affectionately known as “Rhoo” and “The Chief.”
9. What did Nelson Mandela say about Lucas Radebe?
The iconic Nelson Mandela referred to Radebe as “my hero.”
10. Did Lucas Radebe receive any awards for his contributions to football?
Yes, Radebe has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including induction into the English Football Hall of Fame and the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver from the South African government.
11. Does Lucas Radebe have a family?
Yes, Radebe is married to his wife, Feziwe, and they have children together. He is known for his close-knit family and his commitment to his loved ones.
Conclusion
Lucas Radebe’s journey from the streets of Diepkloof to the peak of world football highlights the power of perseverance, dedication, and pure skill.
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