In a poignant reflection on the life of legendary French football figure Guy Roux, the 86-year-old former coach of AJ Auxerre showcases a career that transcended mere statistics and victories. Known for his remarkable tenure at the club, which lasted from 1961 to 2005, Roux has left an indelible mark on the world of football. Today, he enjoys a quieter existence in Bourgogne, where he finds solace in nature, surrounded by the comforts of home, following the passing of his wife in 2024.
Regardless of his retirement from the pitch, Roux continues to keep his presence known by contributing a weekly column for L'Yonne Républicaine and making a cameo in the film Quatre zéros, released in October 2024. Living alone since his wife Janine passed away at age 83, Roux has adjusted to life in a peaceful house on a quiet street, enriched by a beautiful garden filled with flowering fruit trees.
Despite the tranquility in his personal life, Roux has faced emotional challenges recently. Early March 2025 brought the news of the death of Gérard Bourgoin, the former president of AJ Auxerre and one of Roux's closest friends. Roux expressed deep sorrow over this loss, stating, “He is one of my closest; of these people without whom we would have done nothing, nothing successful from what we did.” His heartfelt remarks reflect the strong ties that formed during their years together in the world of football.
The former coach's reflection on personal struggles is not new; last summer, he experienced the pain of losing his longtime partner, which has since been revealed in a recent portrait by the publication Libération. At her funeral, Roux noted the outpouring of support from former students and colleagues, highlighting how significant her impact was in their community.
However, the roots of Roux's personal sacrifices run deep, traced back to his hectic career. Married in June 1964, he recounts how his commitment to football ultimately put a strain on his marriage. “I moved away from my wife because I was never there. I was always at the club where I worked sixty hours a week,” he shared. This dedication, while yielding professional success, clearly took a toll on his personal life.
Candidly, Roux stated, “My career even ruined the relationship with my wife, even if we always got along well and have never divorced.” This openness about his regrets shows an individual deeply aware of the costs associated with a life devoted to sports. He detailed moments from his past, saying, “When my son was a baby, we would go to the beach, and I’d pretend to play with him while sketching my team layout in the sand.”
Now, at 86 and living in solitary comfort, Roux confronts his reality with grace. Though he has fond memories of his long career, including his spectacular win against Olympique de Marseille, he balances those with the understanding of personal sacrifices made along the way.
The sporting world remembers Roux as a dedicated and talented coach, revered for his successful years managing AJ Auxerre, a club that epitomized his career's spirit and tenacity. His enduring legacy continues to inspire many in football, and despite stepping back from the sport, his presence is felt within the league and among supporters old and new. His active engagement with the community through writing and public appearances illustrates that while he may have left the sidelines, he remains a influential figure in football, even in his advanced years.
As Guy Roux enjoys a quiet life in Bourgogne, reflecting on the passage of time, he embodies the essence of someone who has lived passionately, both on and off the field. His journey is a reminder of the vast spectrum of life experiences; while triumphs in football bring accolades, the trials of personal loss and regret give depth to a remarkable life story.
Roux's journey reminds us of the delicate balance between professional obligations and lasting relationships, and as he navigates through the ups and downs of retirement, his story resonates with many. It is through these shared human experiences—loss, love, dedication, and vulnerability—that we find common ground and inspiration.
