Ruud Gullit celebrates 64th birthday

Dutch football icon Ruud Gullit celebrates his 64th birthday on September 1, 2026. Recognized as one of the most brilliant midfielders of his generation, Gullit enjoyed a distinguished career playing for major European clubs and the Netherlands national team.

His club career included successful stints at Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands before moving to Italy, where he played for AC Milan and Sampdoria. During his time with Milan, he won two Champions League titles and earned the Ballon d'Or in 1987, famously dedicating the award to Nelson Mandela. He also achieved success with Sampdoria and concluded his playing career in England with Chelsea, where he won the FA Cup in 1997.

On the international stage, Gullit was a key figure in the Netherlands' Euro 1988 victory. Following his retirement as a player, he transitioned into coaching, beginning his managerial career at Chelsea.