Former New England Revolution defender Gabriel Badilla has passed away at the age of 32, according to reports out of his native Costa Rica.
Badilla, who featured in six games for the Revolution in 2008 and 2009, was nearing the end of a 10-kilometer run early on Sunday morning when he collapsed, according to reports. Though paramedics attempted to revive him at the scene, he was ultimately pronounced dead roughly a half-hour after collapsing.
Outside of his time with New England, Badilla spent his entire club career with Costa Rican side Saprissa, where he served as captain, and won 25 caps for his country while featuring in two CONCACAF Gold Cups and the 2006 FIFA World Cup. He had retired from professional soccer in June 2016 and was working in a marketing job for Saprissa.
“The New England Revolution family is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gabriel Badilla on Sunday morning,” said Revolution president Brian Bilello in a statement released by the team. “During his time with the Revolution, he made a lasting impact on all those who were fortunate enough to know him, and we consider ourselves lucky to be among them. We remember Gabriel as a great man, teammate, and player, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time.”
