Former Black Stars striker Asamoah Gyan has shared the personal toll of the intense criticism he faced following his crucial penalty miss against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
In a dramatic quarterfinal match, with the score tied at 1-1, Luis Suarez’s infamous handball on the goal line resulted in his red card and a penalty for Ghana.
Gyan, who had been successful with penalties throughout the tournament, stepped up to take the decisive kick but missed, sending the ball over the crossbar.
The miss proved costly as Ghana lost 4-2 in the ensuing penalty shootout, leading to their elimination from the tournament. Reflecting on the experience at the Afro Sports Summit in Accra, Gyan admitted the backlash from Ghanaians was intense and had a significant impact on him.
“The backlash was intense and it took a toll on me,” Gyan said. “But it also made me realize the importance of mental health. Athletes need to take mental health issues seriously and seek help when needed.”
Gyan also praised former Black Stars defender Sammy Kuffour, acknowledging his role as a mentor and source of inspiration. “Sammy Kuffour was a trailblazer. His vision and tenacity for creating wealth helped me through some of my toughest times before and after my footballing career,” Gyan added.
His reflections highlight the importance of mental health support for athletes, emphasizing the need for awareness and resources to help manage the pressures of professional sports.
