Even Kaizer Chiefs fans can’t deny that Orlando Pirates legend Lucky Lekgwathi is a true boss. After proudly wearing the number 14 jersey for 14 years, where is he now?
Lekgwathi’s time at Orlando Pirates was nothing short of legendary. He wore the number 14 shirt for over 300 matches, leading the team to six major trophies, including two DStv Premiership titles and two MTN8 victories. As the club’s most successful captain in the modern era, he built a legacy that still resonates with Bucs fans today. After hanging up his boots in 2016, Lekgwathi also earned 14 caps for Bafana Bafana, perfectly symbolizing his career.
Now, Lekgwathi has transitioned into a successful entrepreneur. He is the proud owner of the Grootman Restaurant and has expanded his brand, with a range of spices and sauces called “The Grootman Legends Selection,” available in Checkers stores across South Africa. The brand is endorsed by current PSL players like Teboho Mokoena and Kermit Erasmus.
However, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Lekgwathi in business. In 2021, his Grootman premises were looted, and he’s faced other setbacks along the way. “I tried investing in a butchery near Sebokeng in 2014, but it didn’t work out; I lost my money. I also tried the funeral parlour business, but that didn’t succeed either,” he shared with FARPost.
Apart from the restaurant, Lekgwathi is also working on his own clothing brand, ‘F14.’ He explains, “The ‘F’ stands for Fantastic in ‘Captain Fantastic,’ and 14 is a special number for me.”
Despite facing adversity in both his playing career and business ventures, Lekgwathi has used every challenge as fuel to keep moving forward, solidifying his place as a true legend of Orlando Pirates.
