SAN JOSE - The San Jose Earthquakes announced today that midfielder/defender Chris Ronér has stepped away from his professional soccer career, ending his current attempt to rejoin the team in the preseason following major surgery on his ankle in 2004. Ronér, 25, did not play for San Jose last season after starting 21 games in 2003 and securing a place for himself in Earthquakes history by scoring the series-tying goal in the 90th minute of the Quakes memorable 5-2 come-from-behind overtime win against the Los Angeles Galaxy on Nov. 9, 2003.
"It is unfortunate that a young, promising player like Chris has suffered an injury like this at this stage of his career," Earthquakes head coach Dominic Kinnear said. "We missed Chris' presence in the locker room and on the field in 2004, and I know we will again this year. I only hope that one day he can return to playing professional soccer, but what we really care about is Chris being able to lead a healthy life."
The San Francisco native was placed on the Quakes injured list last season after undergoing allograft surgery to repair a cartilage lesion in his right ankle. Ronér is the first professional athlete to attempt a comeback following the complicated and intensive allograft surgery.
"Obviously, I'm disappointed and didn't see this coming," Ronér said. "I am grateful for my time here in San Jose and the opportunity to win a championship. Now, I am trying to keep hope alive for next season and recover. I hope that I can keep my foot in the door and have a chance to play next season."
The former Cal-Berkeley and Terra Linda High School (Marin County, CA) standout enjoyed a breakout 2003 season, playing in 23 games and scoring two goals and two assists. Ronér developed into one of the most improved and versatile players in MLS in 2003 following a rookie season that saw him play just 29 minutes in four games. The Earthquakes acquired Ronér with the 33rd overall pick of the 2002 MLS SuperDraft.
