There is no denying that women’s football in South Africa has grown in confidence, quality and visibility over the past few years. From continental glory to World Cup moments, Banyana Banyana have shifted perceptions across the country.
But behind the national team’s success story lies a domestic league still fighting for financial survival.
Former Banyana Banyana star and Basetsana assistant coach Anna Monate believes it is time for corporate South Africa to step up and invest in the Hollywoodbets Super League, warning that too many players are still playing without pay.
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Growth without financial security
The Hollywoodbets Super League, launched in the 2019 to 2020 season, was hailed as a turning point for women’s football in the country. When Hollywoodbets came on board as title sponsor the following season, it brought much-needed structure and credibility.
Yet, according to Monate, one sponsor cannot carry the weight of an entire professional league.
She argues that most clubs still cannot afford to pay their players stipends, leaving many footballers effectively volunteering their talent in a competition that demands professional standards.
“Women’s football is growing but we need funding,” Monate said, acknowledging the role of the current sponsor while making it clear that more financial backing is essential.
Without prize money and broader corporate investment, the gap between the top club and the rest continues to widen.
Why Sundowns dominate
Since the league’s inception, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies have lifted every league title. Their dominance is built not only on talent but also on financial stability.
Monate believes the imbalance is inevitable. When most clubs cannot pay players, the best talent gravitates towards the one team that can.
The result is predictable. Everyone wants to join Sundowns, but not everyone can secure regular game time in a squad packed with internationals.
For aspiring players from townships and rural communities, the choice becomes simple. Join the only team that offers financial security or remain unpaid elsewhere.
That dynamic, she warns, is unhealthy for competitive balance and long-term league growth.
Read more: Six In A Row: Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies Claim Another Historic League Crown
The human cost behind the headlines
Beyond tactics and trophies, Monate paints a more personal picture of the struggle.
Many players, she says, come from difficult socio-economic backgrounds. Some are raised by single mothers. Others are supporting families while trying to pursue football dreams.
When there is no stipend, football becomes secondary to survival.
Coaches have reportedly raised concerns about off-field discipline and inconsistent training attendance. Monate suggests the root cause is financial insecurity.
“If they are not getting paid, they are not inspired to play,” she explained. Without contracts or financial accountability, clubs struggle to enforce professional standards.
It is a cycle that affects performance, development and the overall perception of the league.
More than just player salaries
The funding gap also affects coaches. Monate points out that additional sponsorship would not only support players but also help coaches earn formal qualifications and coaching badges.
For a league that feeds into the national team pipeline, investing in technical staff is just as crucial as paying athletes.
South Africa has proven that women’s football can deliver on the biggest stages. Banyana Banyana’s recent achievements have sparked national pride and boosted participation at grassroots level. But without strong domestic structures, that momentum risks stalling.
The Hollywoodbets Super League was meant to professionalise the women’s game. For that promise to be fully realised, broader corporate investment may be the next necessary step.
Monate’s message is simple. Growth alone is not enough. Sustainability requires funding, and the future of women’s football in South Africa depends on it.
Read more: Banyana Banyana shift their mindset as 2027 World Cup dream takes centre stage
Source: SABC Sport
Featured Image Source: Sundowns Xtra on X
