Noticia triste: Antoine Griezmann habla sobre su enfermedad de larga duración y cómo ha estado afectando su carrera… Ver más

Sad News: Antoine Griezmann Opens Up About Long-Term Illness and Its Impact on His Career

In a heartfelt and emotional revelation, French football star Antoine Griezmann has broken his silence about a long-term illness that has been quietly affecting him for an extended period. The 34-year-old Atletico Madrid forward and 2018 World Cup winner revealed in an exclusive interview that he has been battling a chronic health condition that has not only impacted his physical performance but also taken a toll on his mental well-being and overall quality of life.

Griezmann, known for his tireless work ethic, dazzling footwork, and iconic celebrations, admitted that he had been keeping the condition private for years, fearing it would affect his place in the squad and his reputation as one of the most consistent forwards in European football. However, with the symptoms worsening and his performances becoming more inconsistent in recent seasons, he made the difficult decision to go public.

“It’s been one of the hardest periods of my life,” Griezmann said during the interview. “There were days when I could barely get out of bed, but I still pushed myself to train and play. I didn’t want to let anyone down — not my teammates, not my fans, not my country.”

Though he did not reveal the exact nature of the illness, sources close to the player suggest it is a long-term autoimmune condition that causes severe fatigue, muscle pain, and other debilitating symptoms. The illness reportedly first began affecting Griezmann around the end of the 2020–2021 season, but he chose to power through in silence.

Despite the setbacks, Griezmann’s professionalism remained unwavering. He continued to represent Atletico Madrid at the highest level, and remained a key figure for the French national team. However, observers and fans noted that something seemed different — less pace, slower reaction times, and uncharacteristic lapses in concentration.

“I would finish a game and feel like I had just played three in a row,” he added. “Recovery took much longer, and some days I felt completely drained before even stepping onto the pitch.”

Griezmann also spoke about the mental health challenges that came with his physical struggles. “It wasn’t just the body. It was my mind too. I started questioning myself — ‘Am I still good enough?’ ‘Am I letting the team down?’ It was a very dark place for me.”

The football community has responded with an outpouring of support. Messages from current and former teammates, coaches, and fans have flooded social media, expressing admiration for Griezmann’s bravery and strength.

France manager Didier Deschamps said, “Antoine has always been a fighter, on and off the field. His courage in facing this challenge, while continuing to serve his team, is nothing short of extraordinary.”

As for the future, Griezmann remains hopeful but realistic. He confirmed that he will be taking a temporary break from professional football to focus on treatment and recovery, leaving open the possibility of a return — but only if his body allows it.

“I’m not giving up,” Griezmann said firmly. “I’ve faced obstacles before. This one is just a bit different. If I can come back stronger, I will. If not, I want people to remember me not just as a footballer, but as someone who gave everything he had — even when it hurt.”

The entire football world stands behind him, wishing him strength, healing, and peace as he navigates this deeply personal and challenging journey.