FORMER Sri Pahang FC football player, Mohammad Gopi Rizqi, 36, caught the attention of many when he was spotted selling drinks to support his family during Ramadan this year in in Kampung Api-Api, Pontian.
Gopi, who hails from Kuantan Pahang, played for Pahang from 2010 to 2015, followed by Selangor in 2016, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) from 2017 to 2018, Melaka United in 2018, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) in 2019, and Pahang in 2020.
In addition, during his seven seasons with Pahang, Gopi, whose real name is R Gopinathan, managed to win the Malaysia Cup twice and the FA Cup once.
Gopi, who was met at his stall, said he did not expect the picture of him selling drinks to go viral on social media.
"Alhamdulillah, the sale of corn and longan-flavoured drinks, as well as traditional cakes, was brisk, and at the same time, many took the opportunity to take pictures with me."
"This business was initiated in agreement with my wife, Nor Hidayah Roslan, 38, because my salary from playing football with a team has been overdue for eight months," said Gopi, who has embraced Islam for the past five years.
The father of two children aged two and five admitted that, in the current situation, he needs to work hard to meet the family's needs.
He holds a 'D' Coaching License and is ready to share his experience with students in this district if given the opportunity as a coach.
"However, at the same time, I aspire to expand the existing sales, as the main source of income to support the family's needs," he said. – March 8, 2025
