Eden Hazard: ‘I’m more of a taxi driver than a football player now, but it’s OK’  life after the pitch
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Madrid / Belgium  Eden Hazard, one of the most naturally gifted attacking players of his generation, has offered perhaps his most candid reflection on life after professional football and it’s a far cry from the glitz and glamour of his peak years at Stamford Bridge and the Santiago Bernabéu.

In a reflective interview with The Guardian, Hazard joked that he now feels “more of a taxi driver than a football player,” describing his current life as a father and family man as simple, fulfilling, and very different from the football media spotlight he once inhabited. (beIN SPORTS)

Once the heartbeat of some of Europe’s biggest teams, Hazard retired from professional football in 2023, aged just 32, after a career dogged by injuries and interrupted momentum in its final years.

Despite early brilliance at Chelsea FC and a move to Real Madrid where injuries halted his career resurgence, Hazard says he’s at peace with the decision to step away. (CGTN News)

“It’s funny, but now my life is quite simple,” Hazard told The Guardian. “I stay at home and enjoy the simple things with my wife and my five kids.

Right now I’m more of a taxi driver than a footballer, but that’s fine.” (beIN SPORTS)

From football genius to family chauffeur

The Belgian’s words paint a picture of a former global superstar whose priorities have shifted dramatically.

Where once he was dodging defenders in packed stadiums and dazzling millions worldwide, today he’s ferrying his children to school, training and family life a role he likens, humorously, to being a taxi driver. (beIN SPORTS)

Hazard’s life off the pitch could hardly be more relatable.

He and his wife are raising five children, and he says his daily routine now revolves around family logistics rather than press conferences or training sessions.

Yet there’s no bitterness in his voice about the shift rather a sense of contentment in the ordinary pleasures of an ordinary life. (Yahoo Sports)

“Life goes by very fast, especially in football,” he said. “Yesterday I was 19, today I’m 35. You have to enjoy it, not just in football but in everything.” (eluniverso.com)

A career of highs and lows

Hazard’s professional journey was marked by some of the greatest highs modern football can offer.

At Chelsea, he became a talismanic figure, winning Premier League titles, Europa League trophies, and individual acclaim as one of the Premier League’s most electrifying attackers.

His ease on the ball, unpredictable dribbling and knack for moments of magic made him a fan favourite and a feared opponent. (Wikipedia)

A move to Real Madrid in 2019 a dream destination for many  promised to elevate his legacy further.

But persistent injuries limited his opportunities and performances.

Across four seasons at the Spanish giants, he managed just over 50 appearances, a stark contrast to the near-constant presence he enjoyed in west London. (Wikipedia)

Hazard’s international career with Belgium national football team was equally noteworthy.

He captained the side during their golden generation years, most memorably at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where Belgium finished third their best ever World Cup finish.

His leadership and creative spark were central to that success. (Sportal.eu)

Embracing post-football life

Retirement can be a difficult transition for elite athletes leaving behind the structure, competition and adulation that defined their identities for years.

But Hazard’s outlook appears unusually healthy.

Far from yearning for the past, he emphasises gratitude for his experiences and excitement about his future.

In addition to family life, Hazard has sought out new interests.

According to some reports, he’s involved in a wine project in Lecce, Italy, alongside former teammates  a symbolic link between the patience of winemaking and his own life philosophy of enjoying the process rather than chasing headlines. (The Guardian)

“There’s no stress, no travel, no constant routine,” he said. “I see my future as a happy grandfather with white hair, surrounded by my kids. That is the life I want.” (Tribuna)

Reactions from around football

Hazard’s comments have resonated with many in the football community, who see them as a refreshing departure from the perpetual pursuit of fame.

Some fans have celebrated his honesty and relatability, while others have reflected on how rapidly football careers can change, and the importance of life beyond the sport.

Social media threads have been filled with a mix of humour and respect for Hazard’s candid remark about being a “taxi driver” a phrase that has become something of a meme among supporters, highlighting just how grounded Hazard seems to be in his post-retirement life. (Reddit)

A legacy beyond goals

Ultimately, Hazard’s legacy in football is secure  not only for his statistical achievements but for the joy with which he played the game.

His ability to light up matches, his willingness to smile in the face of pressure and his status as one of Belgium’s most beloved sports figures ensure he will be remembered long after the final whistle of his career. (Wikipedia)

But his recent reflections suggest he values something deeper than trophies or records: time well spent with the people he loves and a life lived at a pace that lets him appreciate every moment.

For a player who once thrilled tens of thousands in stadia and millions on screens worldwide, that might just be his greatest victory yet.