Former Maccabi Tel Aviv Star Ronen Hantzis Reveals Suicidal Thoughts After Career-Ending Injury

Ronen Hantzis, a 24-year-old former football player once considered one of Israel's most promising talents, has revealed the profound mental toll of a severe injury that ended his career. Hantzis, who played for Maccabi Tel Aviv, shared in an interview that for about a year after his surgery, he rarely left his home and experienced suicidal thoughts.

"What is life without football? I have no meaning in life," Hantzis stated, describing the despair that followed his inability to play. His family was deeply concerned, with his mother calling every couple of hours to check on him while he underwent physical therapy and treatment.

Hantzis's brother, singer Nadav, was a constant source of support, attending all his games and training sessions. Hantzis also recounted how he supported his brother through a difficult period, accompanying him to rehearsals when Nadav was experiencing chest pains and anxiety.

Despite the support from his family, Hantzis expressed anger towards his former club, Maccabi Tel Aviv, stating they offered no assistance after his injury and that his contract expired that year. "I'm angry because it's the ABC of humanity," he said, though he also acknowledged the club's significant role in his development as a player.