Famous athlete on illness and ruined life: 'I have no food in the fridge, I collect garbage behind the truck'

Didier Segers, once one of Belgium’s most reliable left-backs during the 1990s, has spoken publicly about his struggles with illness, financial ruin and addiction. The former professional footballer, who played for clubs including Antwerp, Mechelen and Liège, revealed how his life unraveled after retiring from the game. His story, told in raw and unfiltered detail, highlights the often-hidden consequences of a career in sports and the challenges faced by athletes transitioning into civilian life. Segers, who was part of Antwerp’s historic run to the European Cup final at Wembley in 1992, where they lost 3–1 to Parma, said he had little to nothing after retiring. He described living in extreme poverty, with no money in his bank account and no food in his refrigerator. “I didn’t have anything,” he recalled. “Not even a euro.” At the time, he worked as a garbage truck driver, walking behind the vehicle all day, even in the cold winter months. This grueling work led to serious health problems, including severe arthritis in both shoulders, infections and the need to take powerful painkillers. He ended up in the emergency room multiple times, struggling to cope with the physical toll. The downward spiral continued. With no job and no support, Segers turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism. This eventually led to Wernicke’s syndrome, a neurological disorder caused by chronic alcohol abuse. It damaged his central nervous system and left him in a state of confusion and disorientation. For years, he lived in this condition, unable to function normally, until a turning point came in 2017. It was his daughter who forced a change. She gave him an ultimatum: stop drinking, except for occasional beer. Segers agreed, though he admitted it would be difficult. “There will be no problems, just that I have to stay sober for several days,” he said. “If I drink every day, things will quickly go off the rails.” With renewed determination, Segers began rebuilding his life. He found a new partner, managed to clear most of his debts and now lives a more stable and normal existence. He no longer works in the garbage industry and has found a sense of purpose again. Though his past is marked by hardship, he appears to have taken control of his future. Segers’ story resonates beyond personal tragedy. It reflects the broader struggles many ex-athletes face after retirement, particularly those who lack financial security or emotional support. His openness about his experiences offers a rare glimpse into the hidden realities of life after sports, where success on the field does not always translate to stability off it. While his journey is far from over, Segers has shown resilience and the will to reclaim his life.