Singapore footballer Adam Swandi has retired from the professional game at the age of 28 because of a heart condition, his club announced on Tuesday (Dec 24).
In a press release, the Lion City Sailors stated, “The condition puts Adam at an extremely high risk of a potentially fatal cardiac event if he continues playing competitive football.” Swandi was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle disease that makes it more difficult for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.
Adam shared his thoughts on his retirement, expressing, “Having seen what happened to players like Christian Eriksen, it’s surreal to think that something like this could happen to me. I’m acutely aware of how lucky I am to still be alive.”
Sailors chairman Forrest Li expressed his sentiments, saying, “(Adam’s) warm personality and consistently upbeat spirit have had a positive impact on everyone here. Given his immense talent, we’re all deeply saddened that he has to end his career in this way.”
Head coach Aleksandar Rankovic thanked Swandi for his contributions, stating, “While we’re saddened to see Adam step away from the game as a player, his health and family must always come first.”
Reflecting on his career, Adam expressed gratitude, saying, “I’ve had big ambitions and dreams in football, and I think I’ve achieved most of them. I’m very thankful for the career I’ve had and deeply grateful to the Sailors for supporting me every step of the way.”
