Retired Player Ángel Pardo Finds Hope Through Walking Football

After retiring in 2013, Pardo fell into isolation and depression, struggling to adjust to life without professional sport. Volunteering at a hospital and interacting with young patients gave him a renewed sense of purpose.

Joining a walking‑football group combined light exercise with social connection, dramatically improving his mental health. The 2026 Active Health Award recognized his inspiring turnaround, highlighting a viable path for other retired athletes seeking fulfillment.