Thembinkosi Lorch’s Journey to Wealth: From Dusty Fields to Luxury Cars and Mansions
Football stars are often associated with wealth and luxury, and South Africa’s Thembinkosi Lorch is no exception.
Known for his exceptional skill on the pitch, Lorch has also built an impressive fortune through his soccer career, endorsements, and entrepreneurial ventures.
But what makes his story truly remarkable is his journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming one of the richest soccer players in the country.
Let’s take a closer look at how Lorch made his millions, his lifestyle, and his contributions to his community.
Humble Beginnings in Fixburg
Born on July 22, 1993, in Bloemfontein, Free State, Thembinkosi Lorch grew up in the small township of Fixburg.
Raised by his mother, who worked as a domestic worker, Lorch’s early life was far from easy.
Money was tight, and opportunities were limited, but his passion for soccer became his escape from poverty.
From the age of five, Lorch showed a natural talent for the game, playing with homemade balls on the streets.
Despite financial struggles, Lorch’s mother supported his dreams, and by high school, he was already standing out in school tournaments.
However, academics were not where his heart lay.
He left school after grade 10 to focus on soccer full-time, joining a local soccer academy where he trained daily to refine his skills.
This decision marked the beginning of a journey that would change his life forever.
The Rise to Stardom
Lorch’s professional soccer career began in 2010 when he played for Maluti Fet College, a third-division club.
His performances caught the attention of scouts, and in 2013, he joined Screamer FC, earning a modest salary of 5,000 rand per month.
By 2014, he had moved to Cape Town Allstars, where he scored 10 goals in one season, attracting the interest of bigger clubs.
In 2015, Lorch’s big break came when Orlando Pirates signed him on a contract worth 500,000 rand per year.
He made an immediate impact, scoring in his debut match and quickly becoming a fan favorite.
By 2017, he was a regular starter, and his best season came in 2018 when he scored 15 goals and helped Pirates finish second in the league.
That year, he won the PSL Player of the Season award, earning a bonus of 250,000 rand.
Lorch’s career continued to flourish, and by 2020, he was earning 300,000 rand per month.
In 2024, he made a high-profile move to Mamelodi Sundowns, where his monthly salary reportedly jumped to 450,000 rand, making him one of the highest-paid players in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
As of May 2025, Lorch is on loan to Wydad Casablanca in Morocco, where he has already made a significant impact, winning the club’s Player of the Month award for March 2025.
A Lifestyle of Luxury
With a net worth estimated at 40 million rand (approximately $2 million), Lorch enjoys a lifestyle that reflects his success.
He owns a stunning house in Johannesburg worth about 5 million rand and another property in Bloemfontein valued between 1 and 2 million rand.
His car collection is equally impressive, featuring a Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit, a Volkswagen Golf GTI, a Lamborghini Aventador, and a BMW M4.
He even bought his father a Lamborghini, showcasing his generosity and gratitude toward his family.
Lorch’s wealth isn’t limited to his soccer earnings.
He has signed endorsement deals with top brands like Puma, Nike South Africa, Lexus South Africa, and Adidas, which bring in millions annually.
Additionally, he owns a car wash in Johannesburg that generates around 200,000 rand per year.
Lorch has also expressed interest in launching a clothing line based on his nickname, Naioso, although the project has yet to materialize.
Overcoming Challenges
While Lorch’s career has been marked by success, he has faced his share of challenges.
In 2020, he suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for three months, leading to lost bonuses and intense pressure from fans.
He also faced legal issues that same year, receiving a suspended sentence for an assault charge involving a former girlfriend.
Despite these setbacks, Lorch has managed to maintain his focus on soccer and rebuild his image.
Giving Back to the Community
What sets Lorch apart from many other wealthy athletes is his commitment to giving back.
Despite his luxurious lifestyle, he has not forgotten his roots in Fixburg.
Lorch funds soccer clinics in his hometown, providing young players with boots and training kits.
He also donates to local schools and sponsors township soccer tournaments, helping to nurture the next generation of talent.
A Balanced Life
In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Lorch enjoys a well-rounded lifestyle.
He is a fashion enthusiast, often seen wearing designer brands like Gucci.
He loves music, particularly amapiano, and frequently attends clubs in Johannesburg.
When it comes to relaxation, Lorch travels to exotic destinations like Dubai, indulging in the finer things in life.
The Legacy of Thembinkosi Lorch
From playing soccer on dusty township fields to becoming one of South Africa’s richest and most celebrated soccer stars, Thembinkosi Lorch’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
With a net worth of 40 million rand, luxury cars, beautiful homes, and lucrative endorsement deals, Lorch has achieved a level of success that many can only dream of.
Yet, his dedication to giving back to his community and staying connected to his roots makes his story even more special.
As Lorch continues to excel on the pitch and explore new opportunities off it, his legacy as both a soccer star and a role model is firmly cemented.
Whether he remains in Morocco or returns to South Africa, one thing is certain: Thembinkosi Lorch’s impact will be felt for years to come.
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