The football world is grappling with the heartbreaking loss of Gabonese striker Aaron Salem Boupendza Pozzi, who tragically passed away at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a residential building in Hangzhou, China. His death, which occurred on April 16, 2025, has sparked an outpouring of grief from across the global sports community. Authorities in China have launched an investigation into the incident, with both accident and suicide being considered as possible causes.
Boupendza, a native of Moanda, Gabon, was a gifted footballer whose talent took him from local fields to international arenas. His professional journey began with CF Mounana, where he played a key role in securing a national championship in the 2015–16 season. His performances caught the attention of European clubs, and in 2016 he signed with French side Bordeaux. While he didn’t break into their first team, a loan spell at Pau FC during the 2017–18 season saw him explode onto the scene, finishing as top scorer in France’s Championnat National with 15 goals in 21 appearances.
Over the next few years, Boupendza’s career spanned multiple countries and leagues. He gained international recognition at Turkish club Hatayspor, where he scored 22 goals in the 2020–21 season and claimed the Süper Lig Golden Boot. His journey continued through Qatar, where he helped Al-Arabi lift the FA Cup in 2022, and into Saudi Arabia with Al-Shabab, where he maintained his reputation as a clinical finisher.
In 2023, he made the move to Major League Soccer, signing with FC Cincinnati. He contributed significantly to the club’s Supporters’ Shield triumph but endured a challenging spell marked by a jaw injury following an off-field altercation. His contract was terminated in August 2024, after which he briefly played for Rapid București in Romania before signing with Zhejiang FC in China earlier this year.
As a national team player, Boupendza earned 35 caps for Gabon and scored eight goals. He was a standout at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, representing his country with pride and skill. His dynamic style of play and relentless drive made him a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers.
In the days leading up to his death, Boupendza had reportedly missed training sessions with Zhejiang FC, though no official reason was provided. He had been living in China with his brother at the time. The news of his passing has stunned fans and colleagues, with tributes flooding social media in multiple languages, celebrating his talent, humility, and vibrant spirit.
Aaron Boupendza’s death leaves behind not only a void in the sport he loved but also a somber reminder of the unseen battles even the brightest stars may face. As investigations continue, his family, teammates, and fans across the globe mourn the loss of a player whose passion for football knew no borders. Memorial service details are expected to follow in the coming days.
