I'd like to post my 1000th over here.
I can't believe I've been watching Del Piero (and Juventus) for like 15 years now.
I find it so amazing how he managed to silence his doubters...from his 'famous' Udine injury in 1998, Euro/World Cup mis-firings/disappointments...to achieving silverware with both club and country.
I remember school playground childish arguments and taunts, I remember more intellectual University campus debates and discussions - alot of opposing fans and football viewers simply had written him off, "Ahh he's finished. Del Piero? Please it's all about Ronaldo [Brazil]."
And while all the fans of these superstars of champagne football watched their Ronaldo's grow overweight, their Beckhams toil in mickey mouse leagues, their supposed legends fading out into the forgotten abyss of 30-something has-beens...
...Del Piero remains, still scoring, still winning, still leading, still inspiring, still recognized, still respected as a World Class forward, captain, free kick specialist. Maybe not as consistent as the past, but his presence is still felt, and he is still admired by all, and performs at the highest level.
I'm proud that he didn't end up being shipped off to some minnow club on a free transfer, to be forgotten, and categorized into the "whatever happened to...?" player. He sometimes voiced his dream of playing in England - after friendlies in Newcastle, or Manchester United.
I hope, that when he does retire, it will be a graceful one. Whether or not he sees another Scudetto or CL cup...he is still one of the greatest ever to grace the Bianconeri colors.
