Silvan Wallner, a promising young Swiss footballer, has shocked the sporting world by announcing his retirement at the age of just 22.
The former U21 international, who was recently contracted to Austrian Bundesliga club Blau-Weiß Linz, cited religious beliefs as the reason for his decision.
Wallner, a devout member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, explained that he could no longer reconcile his faith with the demands of professional football, particularly the requirement to play matches on Saturdays, the church’s holy day.
“I am a devout Christian and I read the Bible. I make my own decisions about my life,” Wallner stated in a statement released by Blau-Weiß Linz. “I wish to follow Jesus Christ, and as a result, the biblical day of rest has become important to me.
“As a footballer this means that I no longer want to play professionally on Saturdays. This is my personal conviction, which I have reached in the last few days. I am not yet a member of any church.
“I want to thank with all my heart all the officials, staff and players at Blau-Weiss Linz. I also say a big thank you to all the people who have accompanied and supported me in my sporting career.”
Wallner’s career began at FC Zürich, where he progressed through the youth ranks and made his senior debut in 2021. He played a role in the club’s championship-winning season that year.
After a brief stint at Blau-Weiß Linz, he has now opted to prioritize his faith over his football career.
