Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Diego Maradona’s life off the pitch was marked by deep personal struggles that often overshadowed his legendary talent. While millions adored him for his unmatched skills and passion, Maradona also battled a complex web of addiction, health issues, and controversy that haunted much of his adult life.

Born on October 30, 1960, in a poor neighborhood of Buenos Aires, Maradona rose from poverty to global superstardom. His performance in the 1986 FIFA World Cup, where he led Argentina to victory, remains iconic — especially the infamous “Hand of God” goal followed by the “Goal of the Century.”

However, as fame and fortune grew, so did the pressure and temptation. By the late 1980s, Maradona was already struggling with drug addiction, particularly cocaine. His time in Naples, Italy, while hugely successful on the field with Napoli, also became notorious for alleged ties to the Italian mafia, wild partying, and erratic behavior.

In 1991, he tested positive for cocaine and received a 15-month suspension. His career slowly declined, marked by weight gain, poor health, and frequent clashes with the media. His turbulent personal life included paternity battles, legal disputes, and hospitalizations for overdoses and heart problems.

Despite repeated attempts to recover, Maradona’s health continued to deteriorate. He underwent numerous surgeries, and his final years were spent in and out of rehab and medical facilities. In November 2020, he died of a heart attack at age 60 — just weeks after brain surgery. His death sparked national mourning in Argentina, where he remained a hero, even as the darker chapters of his life were widely acknowledged.

Maradona’s story is a reminder of the price that can come with genius. A man of extraordinary talent, he lived in extremes — revered on the pitch, but tormented in private. His legacy is both inspirational and cautionary: a football god who struggled to find peace on Earth.