South African footballer Cassius Mailula is mourning the devastating loss of his mother, Pinky Mailula, who passed away on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025. The Bafana Bafana star, who currently plays for Wydad Athletic Club in Morocco, had shared an emotional post earlier that day celebrating his mother, unaware it would be his final tribute.
“Happy Mother’s Day, My Queen,” Mailula had written on social media. Later that evening, after scoring in a 2-0 victory for Wydad against RCA Zemamra, the 23-year-old received the heartbreaking news of his mother’s passing.
In a moving tribute on Instagram, Mailula shared how his mother had always been a source of strength, offering gratitude for all she had done. He wrote, “My Queen🫅 My Angel, Pinkilash Waka, Chomi yaka bunnyou have raised a star and a king… I smile knowing I’ve made you proud, scoring for you in your last days. Rest in peace, my Queen .”
Fans and fellow players expressed their condolences, with many sharing memories of Pinky Mailula’s kindness and support. Among them, one fan wrote, “Condolences, Cash. You made her happy while she was alive. Strength to you and your family ,” while another shared, “May her beautiful soul rest in peace .”
As Mailula grieves this profound loss, his mother’s memory lives on through the man she helped shape, both as a player and as a person.
