Tendai ‘Fire’ Ndoro Breaks Silence After Tumor Surgery in South Africa: “Glory to God!”

Former Orlando Pirates and Chicken Inn striker Tendai ‘Fire’ Ndoro has taken to social media to express gratitude to God following what he described as a successful surgery in South Africa to remove a tumor that developed under his armpit.

The ex-Zimbabwe Warriors forward, who was recently hospitalised in Durban, addressed growing public concern about his health with a candid video update on Facebook. Speaking in a mix of English and Shona, Ndoro clarified that contrary to earlier reports, he was not suffering from diabetes.

“Hello guys, I’m okay. I’m in the hospital, undergoing treatment for a tumor that developed under my armpit. It’s not diabetes. I’m sick, yes, but it’s not that serious,” he said.

The statement comes in the wake of a leaked voice recording of Ndoro’s mother expressing concern about her son’s condition. In the emotional clip, she revealed that the family had not been in direct contact with him and had only learned about his hospitalisation through a third party.

“Tamuka mwanangu. Saka mkomana hana kuzokupindura here? … Tendai ari muchipatara. Ariku Durban,” she said, describing his lack of communication and worrying signs like severely low blood sugar levels and swelling under his arm.

She also voiced financial struggles preventing her from visiting her son or assisting with his recovery.

Despite his mother’s distress and the worrying rumors circulating online, Ndoro reassured his fans and followers that he is in good spirits. In a follow-up Facebook post, he celebrated a successful surgical procedure and gave thanks to God for his recovery.

“Congratulations to myself for the successful surgery I had this afternoon. It went well, the tumor in my hand was removed. Glory to the Almighty God for keeping us alive,” Ndoro wrote.

The update has brought relief to fans across Zimbabwe and South Africa, many of whom have followed his football journey from the local leagues to international stages. Ndoro, known for his explosive pace and sharp finishing, played for clubs including Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town, and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Faisaly, earning widespread admiration in his prime.

While his recent health challenges have raised concern, his strong spirit and open communication have inspired support from across the football fraternity.

As he continues his recovery, many are hopeful this marks the beginning of a new and healthier chapter for the man once nicknamed “Fire” for his on-field brilliance.