Austria legend Gerhard Rodax died in an accident

Sad news from the football world just before the start of the World Cup in Qatar. Former Austrian international Gerhard Rodax is dead. The 57-year-old died in a tragic accident on Wednesday morning. He was hit by a train in his home country. As the “Krone” reports, it was a suicide. Rodex was seriously ill and probably saw no other way out.

Victory goal against Spain

During his career Rodax completed 246 games in the Austrian Bundesliga for Admira Wacker (1982 to 1990 and 1995/96) and Rapid Vienna (1992/93). In the 1989/90 season he was top scorer with 35 goals. He was also honored for his achievements as Austria’s footballer of the year 1989.

Rodax, who was nicknamed “blonde rocket” because of his speed, also caused a stir outside his home country. Around March 28, 1990 during the international match between Spain and Austria. After being 2-0 down, he scored the 3-2 winning goal for his team shortly before the end. In addition, the 20-time international took part in the 1990 World Cup in Italy. Since he scored in the 2-1 win in the group game against the USA.

Thanks to these international appearances, Atlético Madrid became aware of him. And so Rodax switched to the “Rojiblancos” in the summer of 1990, with whom he became Spanish runner-up and cup winner.

“You will always be in our hearts”

His former clubs mourn him on Twitter. “Our sincere condolences go to his survivors,” writes Rapid Vienna. And at Atlético Madrid it says: “The Rojiblanca family mourns Gerhard Rodax. The Austrian was a member of our team in the 1990/91 season and won the Copa del Rey. You will always be in our hearts.”

During his career, Rodax opened a sports facility in Lower Austria, including a tennis court and restaurant. He took care of this until the end as managing director. Now his life has come to a tragic end. He leaves behind his wife, an adult daughter and a ten-year-old daughter.