In a shocking turn of events, Ricky Bornschein, a 25-year-old striker for FC Erzgebirge Aue, has been diagnosed with cancer. The news was made public on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, following his successful surgery to remove a malignant tumor just a day prior. Bornschein's diagnosis has sent ripples through the football community, as the club and its fans rally around their player during this challenging time.
Matthias Heidrich, the sporting director of Aue, expressed the club's commitment to supporting Bornschein through his recovery. "With this topic, the club has always approached it very sensitively and places great importance on preventative care. Due to acute complaints, Ricky had to undergo a medical examination, and he received the bad news with composure. His fight has already begun, and we are giving him all conceivable support," Heidrich stated.
Bornschein, who transferred to Aue from the second team of Greuther Fürth in the summer of 2024, has been a key player for the team, participating in 18 competitive matches this season and scoring four goals. However, he has struggled with injuries and fatigue over the past few months, which ultimately led to his diagnosis.
In a heartfelt message posted on his Instagram account, Bornschein thanked his family, friends, management, and the club for their unwavering support during this difficult time. He shared a photo from the hospital, expressing the emotional toll of the diagnosis. "I thank my family, my friends, my management, and the club for their support in this tough time. The last few months, I have often felt unwell on the pitch and off it, struggling with injuries and fatigue. It was hard for me to express my problems, as they seemed to change every day, leading to shorter or longer absences," he wrote.
Bornschein recounted the moment he learned about his condition: "As an athlete who pays attention to my body, I eventually recognized that something was wrong. The fatigue and weakness worsened until I experienced severe pain overnight last week. I had to act quickly, and after a check-up, I received the diagnosis: cancer." His determination to overcome this challenge is evident as he stated, "I have faced many battles with low chances and feel ready to take on this fight, emerging stronger and healthier, ready to enjoy football again on and off the pitch."
Despite the grim news, Bornschein remains optimistic about his recovery. He emphasized the importance of mental strength and positive energy in his journey ahead. "Patience, mental strength, and positive energy are now required, and that is my firm intention," he affirmed.
The club has also drawn inspiration from the story of Bornschein's teammate, Omar Sijaric, who battled cancer a few years ago and successfully returned to the pitch. Sijaric's journey serves as a beacon of hope for Bornschein, who is determined to follow in his footsteps.
Bornschein's journey to professional football has been remarkable. Originally from Naumburg, he made his way up the ranks, switching from Oberligist SV BW Zorbau to Greuther Fürth II in 2023. After a strong season in the Regionalliga, he joined Aue, where he has since made significant contributions to the team.
As Bornschein steps into this new chapter of his life, the support from his teammates, club officials, and fans will be crucial. The football community is known for its solidarity, and Aue is no exception. The club has emphasized its commitment to providing the necessary assistance to Bornschein during his recovery process.
In the meantime, Aue will have to manage without Bornschein's talents on the field. The striker will be unavailable for the foreseeable future as he focuses on his health. The club and its supporters are hopeful that he will return stronger than ever.
As the situation develops, fans and fellow players alike are keeping Bornschein in their thoughts. His story serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that athletes often embody, both on and off the field. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with the right support and determination, Bornschein is poised to emerge victorious from this battle.
In conclusion, the diagnosis of cancer is a heavy burden for any athlete to bear, but Ricky Bornschein's spirit and resolve shine through in his words. The football world stands united in support of him, eager to see him back on the pitch where he belongs. The fight against cancer is one that will require patience and perseverance, but Bornschein's journey is just beginning. With the backing of his club and the love of his fans, there is hope for a bright future ahead.
