Veteran striker Ai Kesen, known internationally as Elkeson, announced his retirement from professional football Wednesday via social media, closing a groundbreaking chapter in Asian sports history. The Brazil-born athlete leaves behind a legacy as the first foreign-born footballer to represent China's national team without ancestral ties to the country.
Ai's 2019 naturalization marked a turning point for Chinese football, with the forward making history again in 2022 as the first non-ethnic Chinese player to compete in FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers. His crucial contributions — 4 goals and 3 assists — showcased his adaptability and skill during high-stakes matches.
Since joining Guangzhou Evergrande in 2012, Ai dominated the Chinese Super League (CSL), claiming five league titles across stints with Guangzhou, Shanghai Port, and Chengdu Rongcheng. His debut season set the tone, helping Guangzhou secure both CSL and AFC Champions League trophies — a feat he replicated in 2015.
Though injuries limited his final season with Chengdu Rongcheng in 2023, Ai's career statistics speak volumes: 123 goals in 186 CSL appearances cement his status as one of Asia's most effective strikers. His retirement prompts reflection on football's evolving landscape in China and Asia's growing appeal to international talent.
