“I cried every day” – French football legend Thierry Henry reveals SHOCKING past, discusses overcoming childhood depression and the price of success

France and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is often considered one of the best players in the Premier League. He has made the news again for opening up about a side of himself nobody had known.

From overcoming childhood obstacles to becoming disciplined and fulfilling his idea of a job as a teenager, Henry has shown fans the dark side of life while being a professional footballer. During an exclusive podcast with Steven Bartlett, the former player turned pundit narrated his background story that was unknown to the public ears.

I Cried Every Single Day. Dealing With Depression, My Childhood Trauma & Fighting For My Dad's Love!

Henry said during the podcast, confirming the tough, emotionless life, he was being forced to live.

He talked about mental health and how society was not comfortable dealing with men’s issues during his time, from walking down the path laid in front of him by his father to gaining his validation even when he had become ‘Invincible‘ with Arsenal. Henry’s revelations draw a scary picture of the struggles of a top-level athlete and the social pressure they have to go through, even while expressing themselves.

Henry then edified how he had always been a famous individual and adapting to ‘normal‘ life post-retirement was also a challenge for him. He moved to France to improve his family’s life and do what he was asked to do. Henry also confirmed how Arsene Wenger was like a father figure to him, someone who helped him psychologically.

Thierry Henry expresses his battle with depression and identity crisis

Football legend Thierry Henry recently opened up about his enduring battle with depression, attributing it to his upbringing and the significant influence of his father. From a young age, his dad’s prophecy of him becoming an extraordinary footballer became a weight. It propelled him into a ceaseless pursuit of approval.

Throughout my career, I have been depressed. To understand this, you have to go back to when I was young! When I was a child, I didn't have any affection... when my father held me, the first thing he said was: "this baby will be an incredible football player.

Despite achieving remarkable success on the field, including winning the World Cup and numerous club honors. Henry constantly feared falling short in others’ eyes, underscoring the toll on his mental well-being. His candid reflections illuminate the psychological challenges athletes face, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the human aspect beyond their on-field achievements. In a poignant revelation, Henry shared a pivotal moment when the realization of his humanity dawned on him.

The turning point occurred when his girlfriend and children expressed their emotions. This marks a shift from the perpetual quest for external validation to a more profound connection with his identity. This introspective journey serves as a compelling narrative in the broader discourse on mental health, urging a reevaluation of societal expectations placed on athletes. This also fosters an environment that prioritizes their holistic well-being beyond sports.

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