Toby Alderweireld revealed the tipping point for his retirement from international football occurred after a harrowing health scare, during which he believed he was having a heart attack. Following a match, he experienced severe stress-induced symptoms while driving, leading to a panic attack that involved intense fear for his life and ability to see his children again.
Reflecting on the moments that led to his decision, Alderweireld stated that his experience was daunting as he felt 'driven crazy' by his panic which intensified his heart rate. He shared how the stress manifested physically, creating a cycle of fear and anxiety that prompted him to reconsider his involvement in international duty.
After undergoing thorough medical tests that confirmed his heart was fine, Alderweireld acknowledged that it was primarily stress-induced panic attacks causing his symptoms. He emphasized his journey of speaking with others about mental health, indicating that while he occasionally still faces similar feelings, understanding the root cause allowed him to manage his experiences better.
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