The long jump sensation announced he will retire in January 2022.
Known for his incredible technique in the long jump and triple jump, Khotso Mokoena left an indelible mark on South African athletics record books.
His achievements include medals at prestigious competitions such as the Olympic Games and World Championships, including a historic silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, making him the first South African long jumper to achieve Olympic glory.
Speaking to The Citizen, Mokoena said he was grateful for God's blessings as he reflected on his journey since retirement.
“Honestly, I think God has blessed me with a heart to think since I retired. To me, a heart to think is a heart that wants to serve and help other athletes, and that's exactly what I'm doing.”
Developing the future workforce
Mokoena has now shifted his focus to developing future talent outside of athletics through his institute, YASDI (Youth Athlete Skills Development Institute).
He said he wants to see athletes do better in life after sports.
“I create skill development pathways for them and help them use the strengths they have, which is sport, and use that to help them have a different perspective on life after sport.”
See also: Khotso Mokoena competes at World Indoor Championships
Mokoena said the aim was to equip young athletes with essential life skills and an entrepreneurial mindset.
His vision goes beyond sports: He says he envisions athletes becoming future business leaders.
“My future plans are to see many athletes become businessmen after they finish sports and that is what my institute is doing.
“My advice to current athletes competing in the Olympics, but also to young athletes with potential, especially if they are going to compete in the Paris Olympics, is to think about what you want to achieve and to think about it all the time.”
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