The mental health and addictions affect millions of people, including those who They shine in professional football. Facing these problems can be challenging due to the social prejudices that make it difficult to seek help. However, public figures such as former Boca, Fredy Guarin They are breaking stigmas by sharing their experiences and showing that it is possible to overcome dark moments.
The former Colombian soccer player, who wore the Xeneize shirt and had a successful international career, not only did he face a tough battle against alcoholismbut now uses his story as a tool to inspire and help others. His journey has led him to become a symbol of resilience and an ambassador for mental health.
What was Fredy Guarín’s career like?
Fredy was born on June 30, 1986 in Puerto Boyacá, Colombia. Since childhood, he showed exceptional talent for soccer, which led him to join the youth divisions of Atlético Huila. His skill and determination quickly made him stand out, marking the beginning of a professional career that led him to play for the most important clubs in the world.
The defender’s professional debut was at the club Envigado from Colombia in 2002, where he began to attract attention for his versatility on the field. In 2005, he joined Boca Juniors, team in which he took his first steps in international football. “Play in Boca It was a dream come true; La Bombonera has a special magic,” he recalled.
After his time in Argentina, Guarín continued his career in Europe, playing for clubs such as Portowhere he established himself as a key midfielder, and the Inter Milanwhere he lived both his professional peak and the first signs of your problems with alcohol. In his words: “At the time I believed I could handle it; “I would take two days before a game and then play as if nothing had happened.”
In the Colombian team, the footballer was a fundamental piece for years. He represented his country in several major tournaments, including the Brazil World Cup 2014 under the direction of José Pekerman. It was also champion of the South American U-20 in 2005establishing himself as one of the most outstanding talents of his generation.
However, his career began to falter in his last years as a footballer. The return to Millonarios in 2020, his childhood club, ended abruptly due to his personal problemswhich led him to withdraw sooner than expected.
What was life like after retiring from professional football?
Retirement from football was a turning point for the athlete, who came face to face with the consequences of his addiction. During an interview, he revealed one of the darkest moments of his life: “I was drunk 10 days in a row, I completely disconnected and I almost jumped from the 17th floor. “That was my limit.”
Despite the challenges, Guarín found support in his family and close friends. A key figure in his recovery was the footballer Juan Fernando Quintero, who accompanied him silently during the process. “Juanfer, mainly, was there when I needed him most,” he expressed with gratitude.
Today, Fredy Guarín has been sober for more than six months and uses his experience to help others. His appointment as ambassador for mental health in the White House Directorate of Affairs for the Americasa is a recognition of their efforts to make visible the importance of taking care of emotional well-being.
“I want to bring this message from what I lived, from my own experience,” he emphasized. His work includes giving motivational talks and collaborating with organizations that work in the addiction prevention and the promotion of mental health.
Source: Ambito
I am Pierce Boyd, a driven and ambitious professional working in the news industry. I have been writing for 24 Hours Worlds for over five years, specializing in sports section coverage. During my tenure at the publication, I have built an impressive portfolio of articles that has earned me a reputation as an experienced journalist and content creator.
