PHOTO: AFP
2015 Puskas Award winner Wendell Lira announced on Thursday that he has retired from professional football to pursue a career in video gaming.
The former Brazilian striker made world headlines six months ago after taking home the prize for 2015’s best goal with a twisting bicycle kick against Atletico Goianiense. The 27-year-old defeated Barcelona forward Lionel Messi to win the aforementioned award.
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Speaking to globoesporte.com, the former Goianesia man explained that it was always his dream to become a gamer.
“I define my life in two dreams -- one possible and another almost impossible,” said Lira. “One was to be a player, which is difficult because, in Brazilian football, it is difficult to become professional. However, I had pleasant moments that I’ll never forget. But I also had the dream of being a gamer.”
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He added: “It is not the end of a dream. In fact, God has given me the opportunity to have this job as a follow-up in my life, being happy and continuing with that smile.”
According to reports, Lira has already once beaten FIFA Interactive World Champion Abdulaziz Alshehri 6-1.
Here’s a look at the goal which won him fame across the globe:
This article initially appeared on ESPN
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