TS Galaxy coach and former Bafana Bafana star Bernard Parker and his wife, Kacha Stepanovic, have blown the final whistle against their marriage after many years of being together.
Parker announced their decision to go their separate ways in a statement shared on his Instagram account on Tuesday, October 13.
In the emotional statement, Parker acknowledged his mistakes, including personal struggles with addiction, and apologised to his wife for the pain he had caused her.
“I want to be honest about my part in our journey. I have made mistakes and struggled with personal addictions that have affected my life and the people I love,” he said.
“Kacha, I’m truly sorry for the times I hurt you, let you down, and caused you pain.”
Parker described Stepanovic as his rock, saying she had stood by him, supported him and believed in him throughout their relationship.
He said he would always be grateful for the love, patience and kindness she had shown him, despite the difficulties they experienced.
“Despite everything, I will never allow the way things ended to erase the good we shared,” he said.
The former Kaizer Chiefs striker said the couple’s six children would remain their priority, adding that they were committed to co-parenting and raising them to become loving, respectful, strong and successful individuals.
“Our relationship as partners may have ended, but our love for our children and responsibility towards them will always remain,” Parker said.
He also expressed regret over the mistakes he had made, acknowledging that some of the hurt caused could not simply be undone with an apology.
“You deserved love, peace, happiness and the very best of me. I know I didn’t always get everything right and wish some things could have been different,” he said.
Parker wished Stepanovic happiness, peace and blessings, describing her as a phenomenal mother and a great partner.
He also thanked those who had supported the couple over the years, asking them to respect their privacy as they navigate the next chapter of their lives.
“Life doesn’t always go according to our plans, but I believe God has a reason for everything,” he said.
“I choose to be grateful for what was, take accountability for where I went wrong, and trust God with what comes next.”
He concluded by saying there was no bitterness or hatred, but rather love, lessons, growth and gratitude for the years they had shared.