Matthias Sindelar – Austrian football player widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his era.
Born on February 10, 1903, in Kozlov, Moravia (then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire), Sindelar was known for his skillful playing. He mainly played in Vienna “Austria” and was a key figure in the Austrian national team. His game on the field was characterized by exceptional technique, creativity and ability to score goals.
Mysterious death
Sindelar’s career and life ended in mysterious circumstances. He was found dead with his girlfriend Camilla Castagnola on January 23, 1939 in Vienna. The official cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning, but it was speculated that his death was related to the Nazi regime, as Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany in 1938.
On April 3, 1938, the Austrians played their last match on behalf of independent Austria against the invading Germany. At Sindelar’s wish, they were dressed in the colors of the Austrian flag. The meeting ended with a 2:0 victory for the Austrians, where Sindelar scored the most important goal and defiantly celebrated in front of the Nazi officials. It is assumed that this became the motive of Sindelar’s mysterious death.
Sindelar’s legacy lives on as a symbol of resistance and athletic excellence. His story is not just one of footballing brilliance, but of courage in the face of political oppression.
Matthias Sindelar is still considered the best Austrian football player of all time.
