"Carrying him in my heart as I leave": Legendary goalkeeper who made Son Heung-min weep uncontrollably retires from active duty after his "6th World Cup"

*This content was translated by AI.

Guillermo Ochoa (41, AEL Limassol), considered the greatest goalkeeper in Mexican football history, has announced his retirement from professional play. This comes immediately after he completed all six of his career World Cup appearances.

On the 22nd (Korea time), Ochoa wrote on his personal social media (SNS): "I never imagined how far my dreams could take me," and added, "Today, I can finally say 'thank you' with pride while reflecting on the past years."

He stated, "Thank you to my family, teammates, and all fans who have been with me through every moment of this journey. I am leaving carrying the love of countless people and the knowledge that I poured everything into for Mexico. The time we shared cannot be taken away by anyone. Thank you sincerely for your immense love," as he declared his retirement.

He had previously hinted at retiring ahead of the North, Central America, and Caribbean (CONCACAF) World Cup, but after the tournament concluded, he reaffirmed his decision without backing down. By participating in this CONCACAF World Cup, Ochoa has now appeared in a record-breaking six World Cups. This is a "great achievement" shared only by Lionel Messi (Argentina), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), and Ochoa.

Starting with the 2006 Germany World Cup, he has appeared on the World Cup stage for six consecutive tournaments. At this CONCACAF World Cup, his role was that of a "backup goalkeeper." After both securing first place in their group and qualifying for the Round of 32 were already confirmed, he entered as a substitute in the final group stage match against Czech Republic to play out his final World Cup appearance. That match remains the last game of Ochoa's playing career.

He also shares a connection with the South Korean national team. During the second group stage match of the 2018 Russia World Cup, he guarded Mexico's goal against South Korea. Ochoa repeatedly blocked shots from the South Korean attack, including Son Heung-min (LAFC), in what felt like an unforgiving manner. The only goal came late in stoppage time through Son Heung-min, but by then, the momentum had already shifted.

As a result, South Korea suffered two consecutive losses in the group stage, effectively sealing their elimination. Son Heung-min, who had unleashed eight shots against Mexico and finally scored in stoppage time, wept uncontrollably on the field and even in the locker room immediately after the match once it became clear that two straight defeats meant their tournament was over.

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*This content was translated by AI.