Struggles After a Football Career
Former Malaysian footballer Mohammad Gopi Rizqi, 36, has turned to selling drinks at a Ramadan bazaar in Kampung Api-Api, Pontian, Johor, after not receiving his salary for the past eight months.
Gopi revealed that his unpaid wages from a club in the capital had put him in financial difficulty, prompting him to start the business with his wife to support their two children, aged five and two.
In response to the situation, he and his wife decided to sell drinks outside their house as a way to earn an income.
Despite the challenges, the business has been doing well, with many customers showing support.
Viral Stall Gains Attention
Gopi’s situation gained public attention when photos of him selling drinks and kuih at the bazaar went viral on social media. Many people still recognize him, and some even stop by to take pictures.
Customers have also expressed surprise at seeing him in Pontian, and his stall has attracted attention for its offerings of corn and longan-flavored drinks, as well as traditional kuih (cakes).
His wife, Nor Hidayah Roslan, 38, also contributes by selling carbonara popia (spring rolls).
Plans For The Future
Apart from running his stall, Gopi holds a coaching license and hopes to share his football knowledge with school students or anyone interested in the sport if given the opportunity.
At the same time, he is focused on expanding his business to secure a stable income for his family while still looking for ways to stay involved in football.
Football Career Highlights
Gopi, originally from Kuantan, Pahang, has played for several Malaysian clubs, including Pahang (2010-2015, 2020), Selangor (2016), Johor Darul Ta’zim (2017-2018), Melaka United (2018), and PDRM (2019).
According to Sinar Harian, while with Pahang, he won the Malaysia Cup twice and an FA Cup title. He also represented Malaysia’s national team from 2012 to 2015.
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