Martyn Jackson, from heart transplant to world glory

The English footballer won the 2026 World Cup less than two years after undergoing a heart transplant.

Martyn Jackson experienced an extraordinary journey in achieving the title of world champion with England at the 2026 World Cup. The striker had undergone a heart transplant in 2024, an intervention that initially rendered him unfit for competition. His return to the highest level of international football proved spectacular, culminating in English glory in North America. This success testifies to his determination and resilience in the face of adversity.