Why is it ignorance? its a big decision, and as he says did it because he doesnt enjoy it or see it as something he wants to do anymore. Yes, would been much easier to do it for the heck of it, the easy life, but giving it up despite that is bit coragous decision.
I read of similar case of a Porthsmouth forward who was an U21 England NT player, suddenly just going awol and then announcing to the club and everyone he doesnt want to be a footballer anymore, his heart isnt it anymore and finds it disillusioned experience. Packed off to Australia to surf/trekk, and then to eventually work for the Brittish govts tourist department or such.