Premier League flop, 41, makes major career change after retirement as he becomes professional cyclist
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FORMER Premier League star Jelle van Damme has swapped pitches for pedals by becoming a PROFESSIONAL CYCLIST. The Belgian defender spent two years on Southampton's books, making nine appearances. Van Damme, 41, later played six times for Wolves in late 2010 - scoring once.
![[Former soccer player Jelle Van Damme cycling.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2023-former-soccer-player-jelle-965990077.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Capped 31 times, his other clubs include Ajax, Anderlecht, Standard Liege and LA Galaxy. He retired in 2020. Van Damme has since built his amateur interest in cycling up to professional levels - training alongside Belgian superstar Greg van Avermaet. And he plans to compete in a series of events, including Unbound - the World Cup of gravel cycling - in the US later this year.
![[Jelle Van Damme at the Elton John AIDS Foundation's Academy Awards Viewing Party.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/footballer-jelle-van-damme-attends-450857828.jpg?strip=all&w=640)
He said: "If I could have my time over again I would set out to be a racing cyclist - despite all I have experienced in football. "I think I would succeed given my mindset and personality. I always compare myself to [Belgian pro] Tim Declercq. "I'm not someone who looks to win the races, but a good 'servant' who helps my teammates achieve the best possible finish.
![[Jelle Van Damme of Southampton in action during a soccer match.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jelle-van-damme-southampton-action-450858021.jpg?strip=all&w=640)
"My passion for the sport has grown. I have taken on a coach, and I now have full sponsorship. SunSport exclusives. Already have these accounts? Don't worry, we've got loads more terrific deals below!. Check out the latest free bets to use on football, horse racing, and lots more.
![[Jelle Van Damme of Wolverhampton Wanderers playing soccer.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/jelle-van-damme-wolverhampton-wanderers-450857947.jpg?strip=all&w=680)
"I want to peak this year at the Unbound event in the US. "I began cycling with my brothers and nephews, doing 40-50km rides, but now I can do 120km distances. "Just like in football, I can suffer on the bike. I can break down, but I'll recover quickly. As an athlete I will want more when I see that I'm getting better.
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