Japanese forward Kazuyoshi Miura, also known as 'King Kazu,' celebrated his 58th birthday on Wednesday. Not only is he marking another year of life, but he is also gearing up to embark on his 40th season in professional soccer, making him the oldest player in the Japanese Football League.
Miura currently plays for the Japanese fourth-division team Suzuka, having been loaned from the second-division club Yokohama. Suzuka is scheduled to commence training this week in preparation for the upcoming season set to kick off next month.
Expressing his unwavering commitment to the sport, Miura stated at a news conference last year that retirement is not an option for him. He emphasized his desire to maximize his playing time in matches, showcasing his enduring passion for the game.
Throughout his illustrious career, Miura has played professionally in various countries, including Brazil, Italy, Croatia, Australia, and Portugal. His professional journey began in 1986 with Santos in Brazil, a club renowned for its association with legendary Brazilian player Pelé.
In a remarkable feat at the age of 50 in 2017, Miura set a new record as the oldest player to score in a professional match, surpassing the previous milestone held by esteemed England international Stanley Matthews.
Regarded as one of the pioneering figures in Japanese soccer, Miura achieved significant success, scoring 55 goals in 89 appearances and emerging as a standout player for Japan's national team during the 1990s.
As he continues to defy age and expectations, Kazuyoshi Miura's enduring dedication to the sport serves as an inspiration to fans and aspiring athletes alike, solidifying his legacy as a true icon in the world of soccer.
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