World Cup Winner’s Rare Genetic Condition Baffles Doctors, Shares Regret Ahead of Surgery

World Cup Winner Gianluca Zambrotta Reveals Battle with Rare Genetic Condition
By Tamara Prenn

Gianluca Zambrotta, the 2006 World Cup-winning Italian defender, has opened up about living with a rare genetic condition that has severely impacted his health since retiring from football. Now 48, the former Barcelona, Juventus, and AC Milan star admitted he regrets not addressing the issue sooner as he faces the prospect of knee replacements.

[Image: Gianluca Zambrotta (centre) celebrating Italy’s 2006 World Cup win]
Caption: Zambrotta (centre) was instrumental in Italy’s 2006 World Cup triumph, earning a spot in the Tournament’s Best XI.

A Career Cut Short by Health Struggles
Zambrotta retired in 2014 after a decorated career, which included Serie A titles, a Champions League final appearance, and 98 caps for Italy. However, his post-retirement life has been marred by genu varum—a condition causing bowed legs, where the knees curve outward while the ankles touch. Though often treatable in childhood, Zambrotta’s case worsened due to years of high-impact sport and delayed intervention.

"During my career, I avoided major injuries, but I’ve had three meniscus surgeries," Zambrotta revealed on Gianluca Gazzoli’s BSMT Podcast. "Now, without menisci in either knee, my legs have deformed. Doctors are shocked I can still walk."

[Image: Zambrotta on a podcast discussing his health]
Caption: The former defender shared his struggles on an Italian podcast, detailing his impending surgeries.

The Toll of Delayed Action
Zambrotta admitted he ignored early warning signs. "The condition stems from genetics and missing cartilage. I should’ve acted sooner," he said. His legs now require an osteotomy—a procedure to realign bones using plates—to delay full knee replacements. "In a few years, prosthetics will be unavoidable," he added.

Once a dynamic full-back, Zambrotta now struggles with recreational sports like padel tennis. "Surgeons can’t believe I’m still active," he remarked.

[Image: Zambrotta playing for Juventus]
Caption: During his peak at Juventus, Zambrotta made over 200 appearances before joining Barcelona in 2006.

Medical Insights and Future Challenges
Genu varum, if untreated, leads to arthritis and joint damage. For Zambrotta, years of elite football accelerated the decline. "I’m a laboratory model for surgeons," he said wryly. His upcoming surgery aims to buy time, but prosthetics loom as a long-term solution.

[Image: Zambrotta during his AC Milan stint]
Caption: Zambrotta’s career included a stint at AC Milan, but his health issues began post-retirement.

Life After Football
Since retiring, Zambrotta coached in India and China before transitioning to punditry in Italy. Reflecting on his journey, he emphasized the importance of proactive health management—a lesson learned too late.

Zambrotta’s story highlights the hidden physical toll of elite sports, reminding fans that even legends aren’t immune to life’s challenges.

Listen to the full discussion on It’s All Kicking Off! debating UEFA’s Champions League eligibility rules.

Published: 10:02 BST, 15 April 2025 | Updated: 10:48 BST, 15 April 2025

[Image: Social media prompt]
Caption: Share this article on Facebook or comment below.

(Word count: ~650)