Former Chelsea and Brazilian midfielder Oscar has been forced into early retirement after being diagnosed with a heart condition.

The Brazilian’s retirement comes after he lost consciousness during a stress test on a stationary bicycle at the Sao Paulo training complex, as the club’s medical staff had to make emergency life-saving measures to stabilise the player.

The 34-year-old received treatment in November and was found to have suffered from a case of vasovagal syncope, which is commonly triggered by a sudden decrease in blood pressure and heart rate.

Oscar and his boyhood club, São Paulo, announced his retirement on Saturday, April 4, on social media in a short clip. 

He expressed his disappointment regarding his current cardiac condition, adding that he had more to contribute to his team, and despite stepping back from the game, he reassured fans that he will continue to support São Paulo.

He said, “I wanted to do more for Sao Paulo, I wanted to play more. I think I had both the footballing ability and the age to play more, but unfortunately, this happened.” 

“Now I’m going to retire and continue supporting Sao Paulo, continuing my life as a fan. I’m ending my career here at São Paulo, a career that has taken me to many places, practically all over the world.”

“I’d like to thank everyone for their constant support, all the Sao Paulo fans who have backed me since my return, and during this difficult time I’m going through.”

Oscar began his professional career at São Paulo before moving to Internacional were he had his big break, winning titles and gaining the attention of big clubs abroad.

He later joined Chelsea in 2012, and he quickly became a key player under Roberto Di Matteo. 

During his time at the Bridge, he won the UEFA Europa League in 2013, the Premier League title for the 2014–15 season, and the League Cup in 2015.

In 2017, he made a shocking move to the Chinese Super League, joining Shanghai Port (then Shanghai SIPG), being one of the footballers with the highest paycheck in the world, completing 203 appearances, netting 38 goals and winning three Chinese Super League titles.

In January 2025, Oscar returned to Brazil to join his boyhood club, São Paulo, where he signed a three-year contract.

Internationally, he made 48 caps for Brazil between 2011 and 2015, with over 22 goals and assists, winning the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2013 and featuring for the nation at the 2012 London Olympics, winning a silver medal and the 2014 FIFA World Cup.