Supersport United goalkeeper George Chigova has passed away. The Zimbabwean-born soccer star is reported to have died earlier today in hospital.

Chigova (32) who was reported to have been diagnosed with a heart ailment took a bit of time out of the game when he suffered a heart attack during training in June. It's also reported that he had a heart ailment and that he was contemplating retiring. He had been with the Pretoria-based club since 2020 after his stint with Polokwane City. Before that, he won titles under coach Kalisto Pasuwa at Dynamos FC in his home country. He was given time off by his club since his heart attack a few months ago.

Chigova's passing came less than two weeks after the soccer fraternity lost another star. AmaZulu striker Bonginkosi Ntuli passed away after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer last week. Polokwane City Football Club was the first team to pay their tribute and confirm the news of Chigova's passing away. "We would like to offer condolences for the loss of talented goal-keeper George Chigova. Our thoughts are with his family," the statement said.

In a statement released by Supersport United, the club said: "It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of former SuperSport United player, George Chigova. George had two stints with the club, having joined us in 2014 from Dynamos in Zimbabwe. He rejoined SuperSport in 2020 after having played for Polokwane City from 2015.  While he just started seven games for the club, he formed a great backup and training partner for the likes of Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss and Boalefa Pule." The club described Chigova as a great club man, a gentle giant who was loved by current and former player and everyone at the club. "We convey our deepest condolences to his family and friends both in South Africa and in Zimbabwe during this difficult and very sad time," the statement reads.