Watch: Gregory van der Wiel on sports, healing, and new beginnings
Legendary footballer and former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) player Gregory van der Wiel spoke to SiGMA TV and shared his incredible journey in his career. Joining the lively crowd of AIBC Eurasia in Dubai, van der Wiel proudly represented PSG and spoke about the big partnership of his club with the iGaming giant, 1xBet.
Looking back at when he entered the sports industry at a very young age, van der Wiel shared how PSG is shaping the industry by creating more talented players. With its goal for continuous growth and evolution, the club is dedicated to becoming the world’s largest and most prestigious team.
“Keep working, keep believing in your dream, keep believing in yourself,” was van der Wiel’s advice to young and aspiring footballers of today’s generation. “Don’t stress about the small things. It always comes with ups and downs.”
Van der Wiel also opened up about how much he struggled with mental health issues after his sports career ended. He was happy to share his healing journey and is determined to be a light in somebody’s life. He plans to offer one-on-one coaching to people who also suffer the same thing he experienced by providing them with a program designed to physically and mentally help them get through their darkest phases and finally find a new purpose in life.
“Search for help. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help,” van der Wiel’s advice for people who suffer from mental health issues. He emphasised how the mental health side of the sports industry is slowly getting recognition, but he also noted that it still needs to grow and educate more people.
New life, new home
As his interview drew to an end, he shared how much he loves Dubai to the point that he and his family have just moved into the country and are starting a new life there. He believes that the region’s boundless opportunities and security make it one of the prime locations for business and sports alike.
Stay tuned for more captivating content from the industry, including in-depth interviews and exciting events on SiGMA TV. Don’t miss out on the latest insights and discussions shaping the sector’s future!
