Former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan has candidly discussed the profound impact of the backlash he faced after missing a crucial penalty against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup quarterfinals.

The match, tied at 1-1, saw Luis Suarez's infamous handball on the goal line result in a red card and a penalty for Ghana.

Gyan, who had previously demonstrated his penalty-taking prowess, missed the vital kick by sending the ball over the crossbar.

This miss proved pivotal, as Ghana subsequently lost 4-2 in the penalty shootout, resulting in their elimination from the tournament.

Reflecting on the experience at the Afro Sports Summit in Accra, Gyan revealed the intense backlash he endured.

“The backlash was intense and it took a toll on me,” he admitted. “But it also made me realize the importance of mental health.

Athletes need to take mental health issues seriously and seek help when needed.”

Gyan praised former Black Stars defender Sammy Kuffour for his mentorship and inspiration during challenging times.

“Sammy Kuffour was a trailblazer. His vision and tenacity for creating wealth helped me through some of my toughest times before and after my footballing career,” Gyan said.

His reflections underscore the broader issue of mental health in sports, emphasizing the necessity for support systems and awareness among athletes.

Gyan's openness highlights the crucial need for addressing mental health challenges in the sporting world.