Ezequiel Lavezzi shares his experience with mental health struggles

Former Argentine professional footballer Ezequiel Lavezzi has publicly addressed his battle with clinical depression following his retirement from the sport in 2019. Now 41, the former Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain player revealed that he faced a significant void after leaving the pitch, which necessitated hospitalization, ongoing medication, and professional therapy.

Lavezzi credits his recovery to a combination of professional care and personal support. He emphasized that the birth of his son provided him with the necessary strength to move forward, while the close friendship of former national team teammates—specifically Lionel Messi, Sergio Agüero, and Fabio Cannavaro—offered critical support during his darkest moments. He spoke with high regard for Messi, noting their frequent discussions and long-standing bond.

Sharing his experience as a cautionary tale for other athletes, Lavezzi now hopes to raise awareness about the psychological challenges players encounter after their playing careers conclude. He maintains that with humility, professional help, and resilience, individuals can overcome such mental health struggles. The athlete continues his recovery process and remains active in advocating for those dealing with similar issues.