Singaporean footballer Adam Swandi has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 28 due to cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition that makes it dangerous for him to continue competing at the highest level.
Adam’s health issues came to light in September 2024 during Lion City Sailors’ Singapore Premier League (SPL) match against Tanjong Pagar United, when he felt unwell and was substituted at half-time. Immediate medical attention stabilized his condition, but subsequent tests revealed an underlying issue—cardiomyopathy, a disease that compromises the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively and increases the risk of fatal cardiac events.
After consultations with medical professionals, Adam made the difficult decision to end his decade-long professional football career to prioritize his health and family.
Adam’s retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable journey that began in 2011 when he captained Singapore’s U-15 team to victories over Newcastle United and Juventus in the Lion City Cup. His stellar performances caught the attention of European scouts, leading to a two-year stint with French Ligue 2 side FC Metz, where he represented their U-19 team.
Upon returning to Singapore in 2015, Adam played for the Young Lions, made history as the first Singaporean to sign with Albirex Niigata (S), and enjoyed league and personal success, including winning the SPL title and being named the league’s Young Player of the Year in 2018.
Adam was also part of the Lion City Sailors’ inaugural squad in 2020 and became a mainstay at the club, winning multiple titles, including the 2021 SPL, the 2023 Singapore Cup, and two Community Shield trophies. Over his career with the Sailors, Adam made 93 appearances and earned 22 caps for the Singapore national team.
Lion City Sailors have pledged their unwavering support to Adam as he transitions into life after football. Chairman Forrest Li expressed deep admiration for Adam’s contributions to the club, calling him “a valuable member” and promising to help him explore opportunities in both technical and non-technical roles.
Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković added, “Adam is not just a footballer; he’s also a father and a husband. His health and family must come first. We are saddened by his premature retirement but look forward to his continued involvement with the club in other capacities.”
In a heartfelt statement, Adam expressed gratitude for his career and the support he has received.
“I’ve had big ambitions and dreams in football, and I think I’ve achieved most of them. I’m deeply thankful for the career I’ve had and for the unwavering support of the Sailors,” he said.
Adam also reflected on the fragility of life, referencing incidents like Christian Eriksen’s cardiac arrest in 2021. “It’s surreal to think this could happen to me, but I’m acutely aware of how lucky I am to still be alive.”
As Adam Swandi steps away from the pitch, he does so with no regrets and an eagerness to contribute to football in new ways. His story serves as both a cautionary tale about the importance of health and a testament to the resilience and dedication that defined his career.
Credit Photo : LCS
