Ronwen Williams has walked a remarkable path — one grounded in humility, fuelled by purpose, and elevated by excellence. As captain, goalkeeper, and mentor, he carries more than gloves into each game — he carries a nation’s belief, as we found out when we caught up with him recently.
From the streets of Gqeberha to the rarefied air of the Ballon d’Or shortlist, Ronwen Williams has carved out a path few could have imagined — let alone walked with such grace and grit. As captain of Mamelodi Sundowns and a commanding presence between the posts, he stands as more than just a footballer. He’s a leader, a mentor, a symbol of possibility. With the Club World Cup on the horizon and a nation watching, Ronwen’s journey reflects the soul of South African football — raw, rhythmic, resilient.
But beyond the gloves and glory is a man grounded in family, driven by purpose, and fiercely committed to legacy. In this conversation, which took place during a shoot for the recent adidas Road to Glory pack, he opens up on what success really means, the weight of representation, and why every save, every step, is for something bigger than himself. This is Ronwen Williams — calm off the pitch, electric on it, and always playing for more.
From growing up in Gqeberha to nights like last night, and now the Club World Cup — how would you describe this journey, in your shoes, in your gloves?
It’s been a rollercoaster. So many incredible highs, and of course, some really tough lows — but that’s exactly what’s shaped me. Every obstacle I’ve faced has just added fuel. It’s pushed me to keep climbing. Looking back, the journey’s been nothing short of amazing.
You come across as someone very in touch with your emotions and mindset — do you measure success in more ways than just trophies?
Absolutely. Life always comes first. I love the saying: football is one of the most important of the least important things. This is more than just a job — it’s my life. But beyond that, there’s family, loved ones, and now, this responsibility to give back. At this stage in my career, success isn’t just about medals — it’s about how many people I can inspire to believe that they can rise up too.
And yet, those moments — lifting a trophy — what does that actually feel like?
It’s surreal. The weight of the trophy carries the weight of everything you went through to earn it — the sweat, the sacrifices, the sleepless nights. When you lift it, there's this moment where you go numb. It’s hard to describe. But right after, your mind switches: “What’s next?” It becomes about doing it again, doing it better.
Sundowns has become a symbol of excellence — what makes the culture at the club so powerful?
It’s a winning mentality that runs through everyone — not just the players. The kitman, the driver — everyone wants to be the best at what they do. The moment you walk through those gates, you feel it. It's a lifestyle here. We don't settle. We win the league, we chase the Champions League. Now, it's the Club World Cup. And after that? It’s about consistency and chasing new heights.
Speaking of the Club World Cup — how does it feel to be on that stage, representing not just Sundowns but South Africa and the continent?
It’s massive. Honestly, it’s one of those things you don’t even dream about — because for most of us, there’s no reference point. No history. Now, to be part of that, as one of the first African clubs to do it, it’s huge. That dusty pitch in Gqeberha? That’s where this all started. And now, I get to live out something beyond my dreams. It’s about opening doors and giving the next generation a reason to dream even bigger.
What would you like the world to understand about Sundowns as you step onto that global stage?
We’re there for a reason. We’re not just participants — we’re contenders. The world’s going to see that “shoeshine and piano” style we’re known for. Our football has soul, rhythm, identity. Once people see it, they’ll get hooked.
You were shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or. That's rare territory — how did that feel?
I still get goosebumps. It hasn’t quite sunk in. It’s not something I ever dreamed of — because no one from here had done it before. But now, that glass ceiling’s cracked. I hope it inspires people to dream beyond the limits we thought we had. Top 10 in the world... that’s something I’ll carry forever.
You talked about rhythm and soul — do you see football as a form of creative expression?
Definitely. When I cross that white line, it’s like stepping into a spotlight. Michael Jackson used to say, “When the spotlight’s on, it’s time to perform.” That’s how it is for me. Something switches. That inner fire, that inner creativity comes out. On the pitch, I express a side of me most people never see.
So who are you off the pitch? What’s Ronwen like when the gloves are off?
Complete opposite. I’m calm, quiet, very family-oriented. It’s all about my kids, my girlfriend, my close circle. I’m happiest at home with them — just being present. That’s my real peace.
How many kids do you have?
Two — one’s 12, and the other just turned 3.
And your eldest must really be taking this all in now.
For sure. That’s my biggest motivation now. I’m not just his dad — I’m his role model. He watches everything I do. So I push myself to be the best version of me, every day. His pride means more than anything I’ve ever won.
You’ve already inspired so many — but how do you think about legacy?
I want to leave something lasting, beyond the field. That’s why I launched the Ronwen Williams Foundation. It’s about education, inspiration, and creating opportunities — especially for those coming from the kind of places I did. The goal is to pull more young people out of gangsterism, drugs, and hopelessness. We’ve already started amazing projects. For me, this legacy — helping shape communities — it’ll mean more than any medal ever could.
Ronwen Williams wears the adidas COPA Pure III, which you can pick up at prodirectsport.com/soccer
