At just 28 years old, Adam Swandi has made the heartbreaking decision to retire from professional football.
The Lion City Sailors midfielder, celebrated for his skill and creativity on the field, steps away from the sport after being diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. This condition, which impairs the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, makes continuing his career a serious health risk.
Swandi described the news as a “big, big shock” during an interview with The Straits Times, expressing the sadness of leaving behind the game he has loved and excelled in since his youth.
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In a LinkedIn post, Dr Koh Choong Hou, a cardiologist at Nobel Heart Centre and adjunct assistant professor at Duke-NUS Medical School, shared his reflections on a Singapore footballer’s retirement,
‘It was most fortunate that his condition was detected before anything untoward happened while he was competing. Not everyone get successfully resuscitated following a cardiac arrest from this condition. 🚨
A great loss of a footballing talent for the Singapore soccer fraternity. But most probably, also an avoidance of a potential on-field tragedy.’
Swandi’s On-Field Struggles Reveal Heart Condition
Swandi first noticed something was wrong during a friendly match in June. He recalled feeling “a bit off,” with dizziness and a rapid heartbeat. Believing it was due to insufficient rest or nutrition, he carried on, dismissing the episode as minor.
Weeks later, after a routine training session, Swandi experienced similar symptoms and was taken to hospital. Tests showed no immediate alarm. He was discharged and advised to rest for a week. At the time, Swandi felt reassured and believed he could soon return to normal.
The turning point came during a Singapore Premier League match against Tanjong Pagar United. After scoring a goal, Swandi began feeling unwell while jogging back to his position.
Dizziness intensified, accompanied by chest tightness. Sensing that something was seriously wrong, he stopped playing entirely.
Seeking clarity, Swandi consulted a private cardiologist, who performed a contrast ECG. This test confirmed the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, a serious condition where the heart muscle weakens, affecting its ability to pump blood.
The Heart Condition Behind Swandi’s Retirement
Swandi was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a disease that affects the structure and function of the heart muscle. This condition weakens the heart, making it less efficient at pumping blood to the rest of the body. It also increases the risk of serious complications, such as arrhythmias, heart failure, or even sudden cardiac arrest.
Cardiomyopathy often progresses silently, with symptoms becoming evident only during physical exertion. In Swandi’s case, warning signs included dizziness, chest tightness, and a racing heart during matches. These symptoms prompted the thorough investigations that eventually revealed his condition.
There are various types of cardiomyopathy, including hypertrophic, dilated, and restrictive forms. While Swandi’s exact subtype has not been publicly disclosed, the diagnosis was significant enough for doctors to recommend an immediate halt to his professional football career.
Continuing to play would place undue strain on his heart, greatly increasing the risk of life-threatening events on the field.
Recognising Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy might progress without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making it crucial to recognise potential warning signs.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
- Dizziness or Fainting – Feeling light-headed or passing out, especially during exercise, could signal an underlying heart issue.
- Chest Pain or Tightness – Discomfort in the chest during physical activity may indicate strain on the heart.
- Shortness of Breath – Difficulty breathing, especially during exertion, can suggest reduced heart function.
- Irregular Heartbeat – Rapid, fluttering, or pounding sensations in the chest should not be ignored.
- Fatigue – Persistent tiredness, even after adequate rest, may result from the heart struggling to supply the body with enough blood.
Swandi’s Life Beyond Football
Retiring at 28 is a reality few professional athletes expect, and for Swandi, the adjustment is significant. Despite the devastating diagnosis, he has approached the situation with a sense of acceptance and gratitude. He credits his family for helping him come to terms with the end of his football career.
“If I wasn’t married and didn’t have kids, I would probably fall into depression,” Swandi admitted. For him, the responsibilities of fatherhood offered perspective, shifting his focus from the field to family.
The Lion City Sailors, his club since 2020, have also pledged to support him through this transition. They are exploring opportunities for Swandi to contribute to the club in non-playing roles, ensuring he remains connected to the game. Club chairman Forrest Li described him as a valuable member whose presence inspires both players and staff.
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While the transition from player to a new role is still unfolding, Swandi remains grateful for the journey he’s had. Reflecting on his career, he says he has no regrets, having given his all to the sport that defined his life for more than a decade.
“I feel accomplished. In the end, you only have yourself to be accountable for. I left nothing behind. I gave my all,” Swandi said.
Image credit: Adam Swandi via Instagram
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