Cao Yunding, the former Shanghai Shenhua footballer and now a prominent figure in Chinese football, has passed away at the age of 52 after battling with illness.

Cao was a talented player who had a long career in Chinese football, but he faced numerous challenges during his time as a professional. He played for many clubs including Shanghai Shenhua, Guangzhou Evergrande, and Jiangsu Suning before moving to Japan to join the Yokohama F.C. team.

However, Cao's career was cut short when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2016. He underwent surgery to remove the tumor, which left him with several health issues that required ongoing treatment.

Despite the setbacks, Cao remained determined to return to his beloved club and continue playing. He returned to China to play for Jiangsu Suning in the Chinese Super League,Stadium Express Link where he made a name for himself as a skilled midfielder.

But as with any athlete, Cao faced significant challenges on and off the field. He struggled with injuries throughout his career, and some of those injuries were life-threatening.

In June 2021, Cao underwent surgery to remove a tumor from his liver, which was later confirmed to be cancerous. Despite the difficult journey, Cao continued to fight against his illness and remain committed to his career.

Cao's passing is a reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in sports. He showed us all what it means to push through adversity and never give up hope.

In the end, Cao Yunding's legacy will live on as a symbol of resilience and determination in Chinese football. His death serves as a reminder that even the most challenging of times can bring out the best in individuals, and that we should always strive to overcome our own obstacles in pursuit of our goals.

• Shanghai
• Shenhua
• Cao
• Yunding
• Former