New Delhi: Former Switzerland U-21 International, Silvan Wallner, was once regarded as one of Switzerland’s brightest football prospects, and seemed to be the long-term successor to Ricardo Rodriguez on the left side of the flank. However, in an announcement which has since shocked the Swiss national team faithful, Wallner has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 22.
The decision, which has left the Swiss football community stunned, is rooted in his deep religious convictions rather than injury or form, making his retirement a completely unique one. Wallner, who recently played for Austrian Bundesliga side Blau-Weiß Linz, revealed that his faith as a Seventh-day Adventist prohibits him from working on Saturdays, the day his church observes as a sacred day of rest.
Crazy news coming in today: Swiss U21 defender Silvan Wallner has decided to end his career at just 22 years old! 😯
He is part of a religious group that prohibits work on Saturdays — which has led him to suddenly retire. pic.twitter.com/IR6tTisaXX
— Bolzplazz Swiss Football Platform (@Bolzplazz) November 8, 2024
This religious principle directly conflicts with the schedule of professional football, which often features matches and training sessions on Saturdays. After careful consideration, Wallner chose to prioritize his faith over his burgeoning football career, despite being in the early stages of his prime. He had a whole world of football in front of him but he chose to willingly walk away from it and that requires commitment that most individuals lack.
The young defender had already made a significant impact in his career. A product of FC Zürich’s youth academy, Wallner played 49 matches for the club and was part of the squad that won the Swiss Super League title in the 2021/22 season. He also represented Switzerland at the U-21 level, earning three caps and positioning himself as a future contender for the senior national team. However, his faith ultimately guided him toward a different path.
Faith Over Football
Wallner’s recent stint with Blau-Weiß Linz in Austria showed promise, as he quickly secured a spot in the starting lineup and made five appearances for the club. The two-year contract he signed in September was mutually terminated after his decision to step away from the sport. The club respected his choice, though his departure leaves a void in their defensive lineup.
His faith in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which considers Saturday a day dedicated to God and prohibits work, became a central aspect of his life. Wallner shared that he has been practicing Christianity deeply and made the decision independently, highlighting the importance of aligning his career with his spiritual values.
While Wallner’s decision to retire at such a young age has surprised many, it also highlights the challenges athletes face when balancing their professional ambitions with personal beliefs. As he steps away from football, Wallner leaves behind a legacy of talent and conviction, proving that sometimes the toughest decisions can define a person’s character.
Former Swiss youth International has called it quits at quite a young age but it isn’t due to injuries. Dive in to find out why the 22-year-old has left the beautiful game behind! Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
