Former Black Stars forward Asamoah Gyan has disclosed the impact that the criticism he faced after missing a penalty against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup had on him.
In the quarterfinal match against the two-time champions, Gyan failed to convert a crucial penalty in the dying moments of regular time, with the score tied at 1-1.
The former Liberty Professionals player, who had previously been successful with penalties in the tournament, struck the ball over the crossbar.
This missed opportunity proved pivotal, as Ghana was ultimately defeated 4-2 in the subsequent penalty shootout, resulting in their exit from the competition.
“The backlash was intense and it took a toll on me,” Gyan admitted at the Afro Sports Summit in Accra.
“But it also made me realize the importance of mental health. Athletes need to take mental health issues seriously and seek help when needed” he added.
Gyan also highlighted the influence of former defender Sammy Kuffour, who served as a mentor and source of inspiration.
“Sammy Kuffour was a trailblazer. His vision and tenacity for creating wealth helped me through some of my toughest times before and after my footballing career.”
Gyan, who announced his retirement in June 2023, remains the country’s all-time leading goal scorer with 51 goals and Africa’s leading goal scorer in the history of the World Cup.