Percy Muzi Tau Biography
From the dusty streets of Witbank to the glittering stadiums of Europe and Africa, Percy Muzi Tau’s journey is a tale of talent, determination, and relentless ambition. Known as the “Lion of Judah” by fans, Tau’s career has transcended borders, inspiring a generation of young African footballers who dream of playing on the world’s biggest stages. Beyond his dazzling footwork and game-changing goals, Tau’s story is also about education, perseverance, and staying grounded despite international fame.
Early Life and Background
Percy Muzi Tau was born on 13 May 1994 in Witbank, a mining town in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province. He grew up in a large family of nine children under the care of his mother, Elizabeth Tau, after the untimely passing of his father. Life was far from easy. The family had modest means, and like many young boys in his community, Percy often played barefoot in the streets, using makeshift balls and dreaming of a better future.
From a young age, it was clear that football was more than just a pastime for him, it was a calling. His exceptional pace, technical ability, and vision on the ball quickly drew the attention of local coaches. But Percy’s journey was never straightforward; he had to balance the realities of a challenging upbringing with the demands of developing as a young athlete.
Education: Balancing the Books and the Ball
What sets Percy Tau apart from many professional athletes is his commitment to education. Despite the intense schedule of a footballer, he earned a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree, reportedly through the University of South Africa (UNISA). His educational journey required immense discipline; he often studied on buses, in hotel rooms, and even on flights to matches.
Tau attended Bellville Primary School before moving to more competitive schooling environments, eventually joining Grey College, an institution known for producing elite sports talent. His academic dedication earned him widespread praise, showing young athletes that one can pursue excellence both on the field and in the classroom.
Early Career and Breakthrough at Mamelodi Sundowns
Percy’s professional career began when he joined the Mamelodi Sundowns academy as a teenager. His rise through the ranks was swift. By 2013, he was making appearances for the senior team, and within a few seasons, he had cemented his place as one of the club’s most important players.
The 2015 to 2016 season was a turning point. Under coach Pitso Mosimane, Tau became an instrumental figure in the Sundowns’ CAF Champions League campaign. His versatility to play as a winger, forward, or attacking midfielder, made him a nightmare for defenders. That year, the Sundowns lifted the CAF Champions League trophy, earning Percy his first taste of continental glory.
European Adventure: Trials and Triumphs
In 2018, Percy Tau’s performances caught the eye of Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League. The move was historic, one of South Africa’s brightest stars heading to England. However, due to work permit restrictions, Tau never got the immediate chance to showcase his talent in the Premier League. Instead, he embarked on a series of loan spells in Belgium, which would become some of the most defining years of his career.
Union SG
Tau’s first stop was Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium’s second division. Despite being new to European football, he lit up the league, scoring and assisting freely. His performances earned him the Proximus League Player of the Season award, a testament to
his adaptability and impact.
Club Brugge
The following season saw him move to Club Brugge, one of Belgium’s biggest clubs. There, he won the Belgian Pro League title and gained invaluable UEFA Champions League experience, playing against Europe’s elite teams.
Anderlecht
Tau later joined RSC Anderlecht on loan, where he continued to display his trademark flair, creativity, and work rate. His Belgian adventure proved he could thrive in different systems and environments, further boosting his reputation.
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Return to Africa: Al Ahly Glory
In 2021, Tau reunited with coach Pitso Mosimane at Al Ahly in Egypt, one of the most decorated football clubs in the world. His arrival was met with great fanfare, and he quickly became a fan favourite. With Al Ahly, Tau won multiple trophies, including the CAF Champions League, CAF Super Cup, and domestic league titles.
His performances in Egypt were so influential that in 2023, he became the first South African to win the CAF Interclub Player of the Year award, cementing his place as one of Africa’s finest footballers of his generation.
International Career with Bafana Bafana
Since making his debut for the South African national team in 2015, Percy Tau has been a key figure in Bafana Bafana’s attack. He has earned over 50 caps and scored more than 16 goals, playing in multiple Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments.
Known for his ability to rise to big occasions, Tau’s goals have often come in crucial qualifiers and tournament matches. His leadership and experience have made him a role model for younger players in the squad.
Move to Qatar SC
In January 2025, Percy Tau made a new career move by signing for Qatar SC in the Qatar Stars League. The reported transfer fee was around $450,000, and the move offered Tau a fresh challenge while also providing long-term financial security.
Personal Life and Privacy
Despite his celebrity statuses, Percy Tau remains a very private individual. He is not married, and there is no confirmed public information about any long-term partner or children. Tau prefers to let his footballer do the talking, rarely engaging in media controversies or off-field drama.
Achievements and Honours
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CAF Champions League: 2016 (Mamelodi Sundowns), 2021 & 2023 (Al Ahly)
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CAF Super Cup: Multiple titles with Al Ahly
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Belgian Pro League Champion: 2020 (Club Brugge)
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Proximus League Player of the Season: 2018 (Union SG)
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CAF Interclub Player of the Year: 2023
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South African Premier Division titles: with Mamelodi Sundowns
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Multiple domestic cups: in South Africa and Egypt
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Estimates of Percy Tau’s net worth vary widely, ranging from $9 million to $20 million. His wealth comes from club salaries, performance bonuses,endorsement deals (including Adidas), and investments in real estate and business ventures.
Known for his taste in luxury, Tau owns high-end properties, drives premium vehicles, and enjoys international travel. However, he is also deeply involved in charitable initiatives, often giving back to his hometown and supporting youth development projects.
Legacywater and Inspiration
Percy Tau’s story is one of persistence, resilience, and ambition. From his humble beginnings in Witbank to becoming a continental champion and global football figure, he has shown that talent, when combined with hard work and discipline, can break any barrier. For young African players, Tau is proof that dreams can come true, even if the road is filled with obstacles.
