After decades of dominance, the Swiss star leaves a legacy etched into beach soccer history
For more than two decades, Dejan Stankovic has been synonymous with excellence, resilience, and leadership in international beach soccer. Since making his debut in 2004, he has pulled on the national shirt 415 times, an extraordinary testament to his commitment and consistency at the very highest level.
From Debut to Global Spotlight
The world first took notice at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009, where Stankovic achieved the rare double of adidas Golden Ball (Best Player) and adidas Golden Boot (Top Scorer). It was the moment the sport’s global stage met one of its future legends.
Big Stages, Bigger Performances
Over the years, he became a fixture at the sport’s biggest event, featuring in six FIFA World Cups — Dubai 2009, Ravenna 2011, Espinho 2015, Bahamas 2017, Paraguay 2019, and Moscow 2021 — and once again claiming both MVP and Top Scorer honours in Dubai 2009. His tally of 47 goals makes him the second-highest scorer in the tournament’s history, a feat matched by few and admired by all.
Europe’s Golden Man
In Europe, his medal collection speaks for itself: Euro Cup champion in 2005, Euro Beach Soccer League winner in 2012 and 2022, European Games gold medalist in 2023 (and Top Scorer) and silver medalist in 2019. His performances earned him a place in the World Dream Team on three occasions — a recognition reserved for the sport’s very best.
Club Legend Across Borders
At club level, Stankovic’s influence stretched across the continent. He lifted four Italian titles with Catania and Terracina, four Russian championships with Lokomotiv Moscow, and a Swiss crown with Grasshoppers Zürich. He even brought his talents to global powerhouses, representing FC Barcelona and AC Milan at the Club World Cup.
More Than Numbers
Countless MVP and Top Scorer awards across the EBSL stages underline what the numbers already tell us, that Dejan Stankovic didn’t just play beach soccer, he shaped it. His vision, goal-scoring instinct, and fierce competitiveness made him a nightmare for defenders and a beacon for teammates.
Now, as he hangs up his jersey, he leaves behind not just records but a legacy, one built on moments of brilliance, leadership under pressure, and an unwavering passion for the game.
Dejan Stankovic is more than a player. He is a standard-bearer. A leader. A legend. And his name will forever stand among the all-time greats of the sport.
Credit: Beach Soccer Worldwide
