South African Goalkeeper Itumeleng Isaac Khune Faces Backlash Over Soccer Boot Collection Display

Popular South African goalkeeper Itumeleng Isaac Khune took to his social media platforms to showcase his extensive soccer boot collection. However, the 35-year-old football veteran faced a wave of criticism from fans and followers who were far from impressed with the display and did not hold back in expressing their disapproval.Khune, who has been a professional soccer player since 2004, when he joined Kaizer Chiefs, and later joined the national soccer team Bafana Bafana in 2008, is well-known for his successful career. The athlete’s considerable earnings, reported to be a substantial R480,000 per month, have evidently allowed him to amass a substantial collection of soccer boots over the years.

 

In his social media post, Khune offered his fans a glimpse inside his soccer boot closet, posing a question to his followers: “Which pair would u like me to rock from my archive?🤔🤷🏽‍♂️” However, the response from his fans was less than favorable, as many criticized him for flaunting his collection rather than contributing to the community.

“Give it to youngsters,” suggested @buhle_the_don.
“Some soccer stars are building schools and clinics for their communities, and you are showing off a closet full of soccer boots,” remarked @bob_farm.

“Why don’t you donate to needy youth? 🤷🏽‍♂️,” questioned @djstixx.
“Give away half of the kicks my brother,” suggested @sir_tentwentyfourt.
“Give the young talented township kids your old kicks Itumeleng. Why have over 20 stacked like this when you can make a kid’s dream come true by rocking the mighty Ithukhune32 old boots, imagine that,” commented @thobanimashazi.
“Aii, give away to the needy hao 🤷🏽‍♂️,” replied @sir_rooi.

The backlash highlights a sentiment among fans that athletes, particularly those with considerable wealth, should use their resources to give back to the community rather than showcasing personal luxuries.