Antonis Nikopolidis reveals long-term use of painkiller injections

Former Greek international goalkeeper Antonis Nikopolidis has revealed that he received painkiller injections before every match for approximately seven years. Speaking on the program ‘Proian se eidon’, the veteran athlete explained that the practice began in 2003 and 2004 due to persistent back issues caused by training and falls inherent to his position.

Nikopolidis stated that he continued this routine until the end of his professional career in 2011, noting that he received an injection before roughly fifty games per year, regardless of whether he was experiencing acute pain at the time.

Reflecting on his career, he also revisited the magical experience of Greece’s Euro 2004 victory, highlighting the profound sense of responsibility he felt during the playing of the national anthem.