Veteran striker Ai Kesen, also known as Elkeson, has announced his retirement from football via social media, marking the end of an unforgettable era. Born in Brazil, he made history in 2019 as the first-ever foreign-born player to qualify for the PRC national team without Chinese ancestry. 
At 36, his dynamic career shone during the 2022 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers where he scored four goals and provided three assists. His journey began with Guangzhou Evergrande in 2012, helping the team secure both the CSL and AFC Champions League titles in his debut season.
After memorable stints at Shanghai Port and a return to Guangzhou, Ai Kesen later joined Chengdu Rongcheng in 2023 following a year with Brazilian club Gremio. Over the years, he amassed five CSL titles, two AFC Champions League trophies, and one Chinese Football Association Super Cup, leaving an indelible mark on the field.
This retirement is not just a farewell, but a celebration of a career that inspired countless young football enthusiasts across Asia and beyond. His legacy on the pitch will continue to motivate the next generation of talent. 
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
