Ghana forward Jordan Ayew has responded to claims that he rarely smiles, shedding light on the reason behind his often serious demeanor both on and off the football pitch.
The former Olympic Marseille striker has often worn a serious facial expression with many fans wondering the reason behind that appearance.
Go Ghana! 🇬🇭 Akrobeto visited the Black Stars during their training session to support the team ahead of their big game against Central African Republic ⚽️#TV3GH 📹/@GhanaBlackstars pic.twitter.com/mRIix3gDjt
— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) September 6, 2023
The 32-year-old, who recently extended his contract with Crystal Palace, explained that it’s not a reflection of his happiness or anger but rather his intense focus on the game.
🇬🇭 Jordan Ayew has signed a new contract extension with Crystal Palace, committing his future to the club until June 2025. pic.twitter.com/SSPi9SjGH3
— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) November 1, 2023
Ayew acknowledged that even his family members, including his mother and aunties, have expressed their concerns about his infrequent smiles. However, he clarified that his lack of smiles is not indicative of his emotional state but is a product of his unwavering commitment to the sport.
“It’s [my smile] something I try to work on. My mum, my aunties, it’s something that they complain about. [They say] cheer up, enjoy life. You’re doing a wonderful job. Obviously, I’m on the pitch and I can’t really smile when I’m on the pitch because I’m working,” he clarified.
“So it’s hard for me to smile, but it’s something that I’m working on. It doesn’t mean I’m not happy or I’m angry with someone. It’s just my way of focusing on the game, and when I’m focused on the game, I’m just right into the game, and there’s nothing else I’m thinking about.”
Jordan Ayew has recently committed his future to Crystal Palace, signing a contract that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2025.
Since joining the Eagles in 2018, he has become an integral part of the team, and he’s off to a strong start in the 2023/24 season, contributing with a goal and three assists in various competitions.
Ayew is expected to join his teammates in Ghana as the Black Stars prepare for their crucial encounter with Madagascar and Comoros in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.