Monday, 12th August, 2013
Former Liverpool and Roma goalkeeper Doni has retired from football aged 33 after insisting that his health problems were the sole reason for his decision.
Doni suffered a heart attack whilst he was playing for Liverpool – leaving him unconscious for nearly half-a-minute – and his condition was re-confirmed as a form of arrhythmia.
While the underlying cause had been diagnosed back in 2004, last year's incident left Doni shaken enough even though he attempted a comeback with Brazilian side Botafogo-SP.
His regular check-ups have recently identified the need to sit back and not put his body through the rigours of professional training.
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Doni's career was at its peak during his time at Roma, where he played 197 times and was part of cup triumphs, while he also won the Copa America with Brazil in 2007.
However, he has now decided to call time on his career, telling Estado: "God does not want me to play. I had no intention of playing until 40. Football is very stressful."
Doni has reinvented himself as a businessman, while his legacy is being carried on by his son Nicholas who is also making inroads in professional football.
"I wanted to play a little more because of my son", Doni added. "But this is the only point that makes me miss football. The rest is ok."
Doni made the move to Liverpool in 2011 but could only manage four appearances before the heart condition put a stop to his career.
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