The 36-year-old has turned out for a number of clubs after coming through the SAFA Transnet School of Excellence and youth ranks of Mamelodi Sundowns.
He featured for the likes of Platinum Stars, Golden Arrows, Chippa United, Highlands Park, Marumo Gallants, FC Gagra, Young Africans, AS Vita, and Siwelele.
Makudubela posted online: "After 17 incredible years in Professional Football, today I announce my retirement from the professional game.
"From SAFA Transnet School of Excellence in 2004 to playing across South Africa, Czech Republic, Georgia, Tanzania, DRC and Angola — every jersey, every training session, every stadium has shaped me.
"My deepest gratitude to every club I represented. Thank you to every coach, teammate, physio, kit man, and supporter who believed in me. The wins, the losses, the MTN8, Telkom Cup, NBC Premier League titles — I carry them all with pride."
Makudubela added that he intends to stay in the game and go into coaching.
"Football gave me everything. The discipline, brotherhood, and the love. The boots are hung up, and the Coaching Whistle is next. With love and gratitude," he wrote.
Former Orlando Pirates coach Eric Tinkler is reportedly on the verge of his first coaching job outside South Africa after emerging as the top candidate for new head coach of Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko.
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has dismissed speculation over his future at the club, insisting his comments about being "tired" after winning the Betway Premiership were taken out of context.
Tshepho Mashiloane has returned too Sekhukhune United for a second season on loan from Orlando Pirates.
South Africa's four representatives in CAF club competitions now have a clearer picture of the road ahead after the continental football governing body confirmed key dates for the upcoming campaign.
