Kazuyoshi Miura sets a record: 40 seasons in professional football

Kazuyoshi Miura continues to break records. The 58-year-old Japanese striker today celebrated his 40th season as a professional footballer, playing the first 45 minutes of the Japanese fourth division match between his Atletico Suzuka and Veertien Mie.

He had already played 8 minutes against YSCC Yokohama on June 15, but his club wanted to honor him with a starting role in a home match.

"I know it's rare for a professional athlete to celebrate their 40th season, and I feel really lucky and grateful," Miura said. "I believe I can continue to play, and before today's game I told my teammates that I feel I can do it because of their support. My motivation is to work hard and give my best to be able to play like I did today together with my teammates. Continuing to train every day and maintaining the desire to improve at my age is difficult, but that's what motivates me."

Miura's successes include becoming the first Asian to play in Serie A, in the 1994-95 season, with Genoa. The Japanese has also worn the jerseys of Dinamo Zagreb, Sydney FC, Kyoto Sanga, Vissel Kobe and Yokohama FC, among others. His last international adventure, at the age of 55, saw him try his luck with Oliveirense in the Portuguese second division.