Argentina legend Ángel Di María opened up about the emotional toll of losing three consecutive finals with his national team, revealing that he continues to take medication to cope with the disappointment and pressure. Despite securing victory in the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa América towards the end of his Argentina career, Di María faced heartbreak in two Copa América finals and the 2014 FIFA World Cup within a short span.
In an interview with Infobae as reported by ESPN, the 37-year-old winger shared, “Because of that I’m still taking the meds. I was able to reduce it [dosage]. I’m much better, but that’s something a little addictive, too … These are things that stay with you, that mark you.” This candid admission sheds light on the unseen struggles that athletes often face in the wake of major disappointments.
The Weight of Unfulfilled Dreams
Di María’s journey with the Argentina national team was a rollercoaster of emotions, punctuated by the highs of victory and the lows of defeat. His pivotal goals in the Copa América final against Brazil in 2021 and the World Cup final against France in 2022 elevated him to hero status, yet the lingering pain of past losses remained.
Reflecting on his teammates who fell short of glory, Di María expressed empathy, stating, “Who remembers the boys that reached that World Cup final and didn’t win? Very few, it seems unfair to me. Who is talking about those kids? Nobody.” This poignant observation underscores the collective effort and sacrifice that underpin every triumph in sports, highlighting the unsung heroes who contribute to success behind the scenes.
A Bittersweet Farewell
Despite his ongoing struggles and the emotional weight of past defeats, Di María made the difficult decision to retire from international duty last summer. With a career spanning 16 years and 145 appearances for the Albiceleste, he left behind a legacy that will endure in the annals of Argentine football history.
Looking back on his time with the national team, Di María expressed a mix of nostalgia and contentment, saying, “It’s difficult, but I think I made the right decision. It’s obvious that it tempts me because it’s the national team. I achieved everything I wanted to achieve. I left the way I wanted to leave … ” This sense of closure and fulfillment speaks to the depth of his commitment to representing his country on the world stage.
As Di María transitions into a new chapter post-retirement, he remains hopeful about the possibility of returning to the national team in a different capacity. His resilience in the face of adversity and his unwavering dedication to the sport serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of a true footballing legend.
In conclusion, Ángel Di María’s candid revelation about the ongoing impact of past disappointments offers a glimpse into the emotional complexities that define the lives of elite athletes. Through his personal story, he reminds us of the human side of sports, where triumph and heartbreak intertwine to shape the fabric of sporting history. As we reflect on his journey, we are reminded of the resilience and fortitude that define the true essence of a champion.
