Tylon Smith, a rising 20-year-old defender, the Ashley Richards Cup success is propelling Tylon’s name into the football world. He hopes to one day be in the same conversation as Africa’s greatest footballers. Smith has recently signed for instate club, Queens Park Rangers (QPR). He’s motivated to secure his legacy in the sport and lift up South Africa on the global platform with pride. Though still yet to make a Championship appearance for QPR, he has already had considerable success at the youth level.
In May, Smith was instrumental in leading South Africa to a dramatic win at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). His outstanding moments on the court led to much-deserved accolades. Soon after this success, he signed with QPR, determined to take his first steps as a pro. His determination and talent have not gone unnoticed. He has been nominated for the African Youth Player of the Year award and is one of three finalists for this prestigious honor.
Early Career and Notable Achievements
Prior to coming to QPR, Tylon Smith enjoyed a run of appearances with Stellenbosch FC, where he impressed as a no-nonsense defender. His performance during the U20 AFCON was life-changing, as he would go on to win the Player of the Tournament award. Smith told USA Today that his secret was “consistency and discipline”—two traits that he insists should be a mainstay for all athletes seeking to achieve greatness.
“But for me as a defender it was amazing. I felt proud because I played a very good tournament and my hard work paid off.” – Tylon Smith
His phenomenal run at the U20 AFCON won a South African a title. It did the same for Lionel Messi, but it propelled him onto a trajectory of international recognition. With a knack for rising to the occasion, Smith has established himself as a player to watch moving forward.
Transition to QPR and Future Aspirations
Since signing with QPR soon after his AFCON triumph, Tylon Smith has already racked up minutes across multiple competitions. Having not featured in a Championship game under the new regime, he was pretty instrumental in the Carabao Cup, completing 90 minutes. He was part of the match day squad for his team’s match against Plymouth in August. He’s hungry for the ball and believes he should get more chances to shine.
Smith’s commitment extends beyond club football. He has aspirations to join the South African national team for next summer’s World Cup. His new-found life away from London, during the U20 World Cup, triggered a firestorm within him. Now, he impatiently hopes to put on his country’s colors at more elite tournaments.
“Just being part of the team was big for me. It showed people believed in me. Putting on that shirt was something big for me. I couldn’t believe it. I’m blessed.” – Tylon Smith
Smith isn’t interested only in winning coffee breaks. His next immediate goal is a call-up to the under-23 team in December, giving him a chance to show what he can do on an international stage.
Balancing Life and Football
Getting used to life in London is an adjustment in itself. Smith admits he still frequently finds himself longing for home. Lucky for him, his agent has given him an antidote to homesickness.
“My agent told me whenever I miss home, I can go there and feel like I’m back in South Africa.” – Tylon Smith
This intrinsic link to his grassroots obviously keeps him grounded and focused while playing and performing in the highly competitive world of professional football. As he continues to develop his skills at QPR, Smith remains grounded and dedicated to making a name for himself in the sport.
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