It’s already pretty sad to know that one of Singapore’s most beloved sportsman Aleksandar Duric will be retiring from his colourful football career after his last S.League match at Jalan Besar Stadium this Friday. But his emotional farewell letter will probably leave you in tears.
Published on ESPN FC today, the veteran footballer bids goodbye to his Singapore football family after a total of 510 domestic club football games, 376 domestic goals and 24 international ones since he first stepped into the country in 1999 from his native Yugoslavia.
The heart-rending letter chronicles his memories throughout his journey as a professional footballer in Singapore, gaining citizenship in 2007 and recalling his proudest moment — representing Singapore in the national team at the age of 37, where he scored both goals against Tajikistan in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier. “It still send shivers down my spine when I talk about it now”, he says.
Duric remains humbled throughout the letter, thanking everyone for giving him the chance to play in the 15 different club sides in the league, professing his complete loyalty to Singapore. “I sweat blood and tears for Singapore, and I would give everything to do it all over again.”
The veteran striker mentioned that he will now focus on helping Southeast Asian kids in helping them realise their dreams in playing professional football.
“Please forgive me if I cannot hold back my tears on Friday night, but the emotions I am going to experience will be something I cannot describe,” Duric ends. “Thank you S.League, thank you Singapore and thank you my fellow Singaporeans. From a decent striker, a loving father and most importantly, a son of the Lion City.”
What’s with all these sudden tears running down our cheeks…
Photo: Tampines Rovers Football Club Facebook page
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