Understanding the lived experiences of transitioning to retirement among Azadegan Cup football players: A phenomenological study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mohammad Ehsani 1
ruohollah mohammad bayani 2
Rasool Norouzi Seyed Hossini 3
1 Tarbiat Modares University
2 PhD student
3 Tarbiat Modares Univercity
10.22034/ntsmj.2026.2054745.1187
Abstract
Introduction: Introduction: Retirement is one of the most influential career transitions for athletes. Professional athletes are at risk for problems during retirement due to factors such as early retirement age, identity change, and financial instability.
Methods: The aim of the present study is to understand the lived experiences of transitioning to retirement among Azadegan Cup football players: a phenomenological study conducted with a qualitative method and a phenomenological approach. Participants in this study were selected through a purposive sampling method (available) with a maximum change approach (n=10). The main data collection tool was interviews. The interviews were semi-structured in order to allow for flexibility and continuous reflection.

Results: Based on this, nine sub-categories of meanings were identified, which are: (1) severe shock (2) not coping with not playing and (3) inability to play (accepting retirement) (4) existing conditions (5) an end to start again: another football start after retirement (6) psychological responses (7) understanding the power of living in the present moment (neither past nor future) (8) passing through the league without challenges and (9) four supporting factors.
Conclusion: The retirement process in players of the seventies has different attitudes, more than entering the economic stage and era, they played with their hearts in this era and easily managed the transition period from retirement.
Keywords
Retirement
Lived Experiences
Football
Transition