Grant Kekana is a professional soccer player from South Africa who currently plays as a centre-back for Mamelodi Sundowns FC. He was born on October 31, 1992, in Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa. Kekana is widely regarded as one of the most talented defenders in the Premier Soccer League, and his contributions to the game have earned him numerous accolades.
Kekana began his professional career in Tshwane, spending three seasons in SuperSport United’s youth ranks before moving to the University of Pretoria (Tuks FC) for two terms. After completing his education, he returned to SuperSport United, where he spent two more seasons before joining Mamelodi Sundowns FC in 2021. His performances on the pitch have been nothing short of impressive, and he has quickly become a fan favorite.
Kekana’s playing style is characterized by his physicality, aerial ability, and excellent positioning. He is also a vocal presence on the pitch and is known for his leadership qualities. Off the field, Kekana is involved in several philanthropic endeavors, including the Grant Kekana Foundation, which aims to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children in South Africa.
Key Takeaways
- Grant Kekana is a professional soccer player from South Africa who currently plays as a centre-back for Mamelodi Sundowns FC.
- Kekana’s playing style is characterized by his physicality, aerial ability, and excellent positioning.
- Off the field, Kekana is involved in several philanthropic endeavors, including the Grant Kekana Foundation, which aims to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children in South Africa.
Early Life and Career
Birth and Early Years
Grant Kekana was born on October 31, 1992, in Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa [1]. He spent his early years in Polokwane, where he developed a passion for soccer. As a young boy, he played soccer with friends and family members, honing his skills and developing a love for the game.
Youth Career
Kekana began his youth career at the University of Pretoria [1]. During his time there, he played for the team’s youth ranks before eventually moving on to the senior team. He spent three seasons with the team, before leaving to join Mamelodi Sundowns.
During his time with Mamelodi Sundowns, Kekana has established himself as a talented defender, known for his versatility and skill on the field [2]. He has played in a variety of positions, including center-back and full-back, and has become a key player for the team. Kekana’s hard work and dedication have helped him to become one of the top defenders in the Premier Soccer League.
Professional Career
Club Career
Grant Kekana is a South African football player who currently plays as a defender for Mamelodi Sundowns FC. Kekana began his professional career with SuperSport United’s youth ranks during the 2010/11 season before leaving for the University of Pretoria (Tuks FC) after three seasons. After completing two terms at Tuks, Kekana returned to SuperSport United in 2015, where he played for two seasons before joining Mamelodi Sundowns FC in 2017.
Kekana has been a key player for Mamelodi Sundowns FC, playing in both the center-back and right-back positions. He has helped the team win several titles, including the South African Premier Soccer League, the Telkom Knockout Cup, and the Nedbank Cup. Kekana’s excellent performances on the field have earned him praise from fans and pundits alike.
International Career
Grant Kekana has yet to make an appearance for the South African national team. However, his consistent performances for Mamelodi Sundowns FC have led to calls for his inclusion in the national team squad. With his talent and dedication, Kekana could become a valuable asset for the South African national team in the future.
Position and Playing Style
Grant Kekana is a versatile defender who can play both as a centre-back and a full-back, making him a valuable asset to any team. He is known for his physicality, aerial ability, and strong tackling, which makes him a formidable opponent on the pitch.
Kekana is right-footed and stands at a height of 1.79 m. His height and build give him an advantage in the air, allowing him to win aerial duels against taller opponents. He is also quick and agile, which enables him to cover ground quickly and make crucial tackles.
Kekana’s playing style is characterized by his ability to read the game and anticipate the movements of his opponents. He is an excellent communicator on the pitch, which allows him to organize his teammates and ensure that the defense is well-structured.
Overall, Kekana is a reliable and consistent defender who brings a lot of experience and leadership to any team. His versatility and physical attributes make him a valuable asset, and his strong tackling and aerial ability make him a tough opponent to beat.
Notable Achievements and Awards
Grant Kekana has had a successful career in soccer, with several notable achievements and awards to his name. He has played for various teams in the Premier Soccer League, including SuperSport United FC and Mamelodi Sundowns FC.
One of his most significant achievements was winning the Africa Cup of Nations third place with the South African national team in 2023. This was a significant milestone for Kekana, who played a crucial role in the team’s success.
Kekana has also won several domestic titles with Mamelodi Sundowns FC. He helped the team win the DStv Premiership League in the 2021/2022 season, contributing to the team’s impressive performance throughout the season.
In addition to his team achievements, Kekana has also received individual awards for his outstanding performances on the field. In the 2019/2020 season, he was named the Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament, an award that recognizes the best player in the tournament.
Overall, Kekana’s achievements and awards are a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. He continues to be a valuable asset to his team and a respected player in the Premier Soccer League.
Statistics and Performance Data
Grant Kekana is a South African defender who currently plays for Mamelodi Sundowns FC. He was born on October 31, 1992, in Polokwane, Limpopo.
Kekana has been a consistent performer throughout his career, and his statistics reflect that. According to Transfermarkt, he has made a total of 161 appearances in his career, scoring 11 goals and providing 8 assists. He has also received 22 yellow cards and 2 red cards.
In the 2022/2023 season, Kekana played for Mamelodi Sundowns FC in the DStv Premiership League, making 25 appearances and scoring 2 goals. He also played for the South African national team during this period. In the 2023/2024 season, he continued to play for Mamelodi Sundowns FC, making 15 appearances and scoring 1 goal.
Kekana’s strengths lie in his defensive abilities, particularly his tackling and interceptions. He is also a strong aerial presence, winning a high percentage of his aerial duels. According to FBref.com, he has an average of 2.6 tackles and 2.3 interceptions per 90 minutes in the 2022/2023 season. He also has a 65.4% success rate in his aerial duels.
Overall, Kekana is a reliable defender who has consistently performed well throughout his career. His statistics reflect his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, and he is a valuable asset to any team he plays for.
Off-Field Endeavors
Grant Kekana is not only a talented soccer player but also a dedicated philanthropist. He is passionate about giving back to his community and has been involved in various charitable activities throughout his career.
One of Kekana’s notable off-field endeavors is his involvement in the “Kekana Foundation,” which he founded in 2017. The foundation aims to empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing them with access to education, sports, and other opportunities. Kekana strongly believes that education and sports can help young people reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty.
Kekana also supports various other charitable organizations, including the “Siyakhana Initiative,” which provides food and other basic necessities to those in need. He has also been involved in campaigns to raise awareness about social issues such as gender-based violence and HIV/AIDS.
In addition to his philanthropic work, Kekana is also an ambassador for various brands and products, including Puma and Volkswagen. He has also been featured in several television commercials and print advertisements.
Overall, Kekana’s off-field endeavors demonstrate his commitment to making a positive impact on his community and using his platform as a professional athlete to inspire and empower others.
Media Presence and Public Image
Grant Kekana is a well-known figure in the South African soccer community, and as such, he has a significant media presence. He has been featured in numerous articles, interviews, and news segments, which have helped to raise his profile and build his reputation as a talented and dedicated player.
Kekana is also active on social media, where he has a large following of fans and supporters. He frequently posts updates about his training, games, and personal life, which have helped to humanize him and make him more relatable to his fans.
Despite his high profile and media presence, Kekana has managed to maintain a positive public image. He is widely respected by his peers, coaches, and fans for his hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship. He is known for his professionalism both on and off the field, and he has never been involved in any scandals or controversies that could tarnish his reputation.
Overall, Grant Kekana is a well-respected and admired figure in the South African soccer community, and his media presence and public image reflect this. His dedication to his sport and his commitment to maintaining a positive public image have helped to make him one of the most respected and admired players in the league.
Personal Life
Grant Kekana was born on October 31, 1992, in Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa. He grew up in his hometown, where he honed his skills on the streets before catching the attention of local scouts with his raw talent and determination.
Kekana is known to have a height of 1.79 meters, and he is a versatile defender who can play both as a centre-back and a full-back. He is a right-footed player, and his agent is JDR Consulting.
Off the field, Kekana is a private individual, and he keeps his personal life away from the media spotlight. There is not much information available about his family or relationships. However, he is known for his commitment to giving back to his community. He has been involved in various charity events and initiatives, and he is passionate about using his platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
In his free time, Kekana enjoys spending time with his friends and family. He is also an avid reader and enjoys learning about different cultures and perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grant Kekana’s current team and position?
Grant Kekana is a South African professional footballer who currently plays as a defender for Mamelodi Sundowns FC. He joined the club in July 2021 and is expected to remain with the team until June 2026. Kekana primarily plays as a center-back, but he is also capable of playing as a right-back.
How has Grant Kekana’s career progressed over the years?
Kekana started his professional football career with SuperSport United’s youth ranks during the 2010/11 season. After three seasons, he left for the University of Pretoria (Tuks FC) and completed two terms at Tuks. Kekana then returned to SuperSport United and played for the team for six years before joining Mamelodi Sundowns FC in July 2021.
What are some notable achievements of Grant Kekana in his football career?
Kekana has won several titles and honors in his football career. He won the ABSA Premiership title with SuperSport United in the 2016/17 season. Kekana was also part of the South African national team that finished third in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Can you provide information on Grant Kekana’s early life and upbringing?
Grant Kekana was born on October 31, 1992, in Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa. Not much is known about his early life and upbringing.
What is the estimated net worth of Grant Kekana?
There is no reliable information available on Grant Kekana’s net worth. However, as a professional footballer, he is likely to have a substantial net worth.
Has Grant Kekana won any awards or honors in football?
Grant Kekana has not won any individual awards or honors in his football career. However, he has been an integral part of teams that have won several titles and honors.
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