Veteran striker Ai Kesen, also known as Elkeson, has announced his retirement from football, marking the end of an illustrious era. Born in Brazil, he broke new ground by becoming the first foreign-born footballer without Chinese heritage to qualify for the PRC national team in 2019.
At 36 years old, Ai Kesen played a crucial role in the 2022 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers, registering four goals and three assists. His remarkable contributions on the pitch have made him a standout figure in the sport.
Beginning his Chinese Super League journey with Guangzhou Evergrande in 2012, Ai Kesen quickly established himself as a key player by helping the club clinch both the CSL and AFC Champions League titles in his debut season. His career later took him to Shanghai Port and a return to Guangzhou before a stint with Chengdu Rongcheng in 2023, after a year with Brazilian club Gremio. In all, his time in the league saw him win five CSL titles, two AFC Champions League titles, and one Chinese Football Association Super Cup.
Beyond his trophy-laden career, Ai Kesen has inspired a diverse global community—ranging from young sports enthusiasts and digital nomads to changemakers and cultural trendsetters—by redefining international boundaries in sports. His retirement is not only a farewell from the game but also a celebration of a legacy that transcends the pitch.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
