Footballer's heartfelt letter to late sister published

Ivorian footballer Gnilame "Yan" Diomande wrote a heartfelt, albeit sad, letter to his late sister Roxane, who passed away last year. The letter, published by the American website The Players' Tribune, reveals the deep bond and unwavering support they shared throughout his childhood and rise to football stardom.

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Do you remember 25 people living in the same house... or when I used to play in the street, and I was known as Roberto Carlos because I kicked the ball as hard as him, but I loved Cristiano Ronaldo more... and when I got a cheap t-shirt, and wrote Ronaldo on the back in black pen with the number 7 underneath... and when I got my first real football boots, and refused to take them off, preferring to sleep in them out of sheer joy...

Diomande, who plays for RB Leipzig, reminisced about his humble beginnings, recalling how his sister was the only one who believed in his dream of becoming a famous and wealthy footballer. He remembered her encouragement during his failures and her unwavering faith in his eventual success. He also shared how she was his entire world, providing him with support, protection, and security despite being four years younger.

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And do you remember that you were the only one who believed me when I told you that I would one day be a famous and rich player and that you would be with me, living in a luxurious house in Paris and going together to the most expensive clothing and perfume stores... Everyone used to mock me except you... And you were the only one who wiped my tears whenever I failed to join a club, laughing and saying that one day I would triumph over them all...

The 19-year-old footballer, currently representing Ivory Coast in the 2026 World Cup, continues to honor his sister's memory. He sends all his earnings to his family in Abidjan and has no interest in material possessions like a luxurious house in Germany or expensive cars, as the person he would have shared them with is gone. His successes on the field, whether with his club or national team, are all dedicated to Roxane.

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And do you remember the many times when you were all the world, all the people, the support, the protection, and the security, even though you are four years younger than me?!

The Players' Tribune, founded by American baseball star Derek Jeter in 2014, provides athletes across all sports a platform for free expression. While it typically addresses issues with clubs, federations, coaches, or teammates, the publication chose to feature Diomande's personal letter to his deceased sister, recognizing his sincerity and the profound emotions expressed. The publication aims to honor such heartfelt sentiments and the deep respect Diomande holds for his sister.

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He wanted others to read it to know how much he loved her and always would.