Former Senegalese star Papa Bouba Diop has passed away at the age of 42.
According to reports, Bouba Diop had been suffering with a long-time illness, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
His former club, RC Lens, paid tribute on Twitter, writing: “It is with great sadness that Racing Club de Lens has just learned of the disappearance of its former player Papa Bouba Diop , at the age of 42.
“We offer our deepest condolences to his loved ones.”
World governing body FIFA declared: “FIFA is saddened to learn of the passing of Senegal legend Papa Bouba Diop.
“Once a World Cup hero, always a World Cup hero.”
Diop became a national hero when he scored the goal which saw Senegal beat France 1-0 in their opening World Cup game in 2002.
The midfielder first arrived in English football when he joined Fulham from Lens in 2004, becoming known as “The Wardrobe” at Craven Cottage.
He joined Portsmouth in 2007 and after a stint with AEK Athens returned to English football by joining West Ham in 2011 and helping them win promotion back to the Premier League.
After one season with the Hammers he joined Birmingham City before being released in January 2013.
Diop won 63 caps for Senegal, scoring 11 goals including his historic World Cup strike.
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COMMENTS
“Once a World Cup hero, always a World Cup hero.” Rest in peace…!
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is using my name to display what he is renowned for – stupidity. Please keep it up o. Oga impostor. I am loving it. Impersonate me till tomorrow, the whole world will still identify you as an impostor. You can only dream to be me, you can NEVER be me.
Very sad. RIP Diop. God bless Africa. God bless Nigeria!!!
May His Soul Rest In Peace
I can’t forget his goal against Nigeria at Mali 2002..very good player..RIP
Very shocking! RIP legend!
R.I.P
RIP midfield power house Papa Boupa DIOP. Great player
Never heard of Charcot Marie Tooth disease prior to today.
A degenerative nerve disease, symptoms include muscle weakness, loss of muscle size, reduced sensation, high arches and hammer toes.
Diop gone at just 42.
May God be with his family in this difficult time.