The footballer who had a heart transplant - then became a World Cup winner
Summary
Martyn Jackson, a footballer who received a heart transplant in 2024, played for England in the Transplant World Cup in 2026 and helped his team win the final against Spain. The Transplant World Cup features players who have received organ transplants, playing a modified version of football to match their health needs.Key Facts
- Martyn Jackson was diagnosed with myocarditis and received a donor heart transplant in November 2024.
- Less than two years later, he played for England’s transplant football team and scored in the 5-1 final win over Spain in 2026.
- The Transplant World Cup is a football tournament for people who have received organ transplants.
- Matches are seven-a-side, with shorter halves (20 minutes each) and less physical contact to protect players’ health.
- Jackson played football in England’s ninth tier before his illness and had been part of Manchester United’s youth academy.
- Jackson’s wife found out about the transplant football team on social media and encouraged him to join.
- The transplant football team helps inspire people by showing life can continue actively after organ failure.
- Jackson manages his playing time carefully because of his heart transplant, usually playing short bursts in matches.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
