When news of T. Gopinath Naidu’s passing was shared via instant messaging platforms on May 24, it came as a complete shock to football fans.
After all, most had just watched Gopinath share his wit and interesting tales from his footballing days on a recent episode of Julang, a podcast hosted by seasoned journalist Rizal Hashim and Twentytwo13 editor Haresh Deol.
His family was devastated as the former Kuala Lumpur, Perak and The Malay Mail FC footballer appeared cheerful on the podcast. He recalled the time he revealed he was a Manchester United fan while an apprentice at Aston Villa – a conversation that ruffled some feathers at the English club during his training stint.
When asked if he was still a Manchester United fan, Gopinath quipped: “I’m a football fan.”
Gopinath, who was equally entertaining during his playing days, revealed how nagging injuries and repeated surgeries forced him to retire. He shared how he cried in Central Hong Kong when he was told to hang up his boots.
Nevertheless, when asked on the podcast if he had any regrets, without hesitation Gopinath said: “No regrets.”
Gopinath was rushed to a private hospital after suffering a fall at his home in Bukit Teratai, Ampang, a township just outside Kuala Lumpur, last week. While in the hospital, he was believed to have suffered cardiac arrest and died in the early hours of Saturday morning. He was 51.
Among those who paid their final respects were former national player and coach Datuk K. Rajagobal and several of his former teammates. He was cremated at the Kuala Lumpur City Hall Crematorium at Jalan Kuari, Cheras yesterday.
Here’s Gopinath’s final media appearance, one that will be remembered for years to come:
