28-Year-Old Gabonese Striker Boupendza Dies After Falling From 11th Floor In China

Gabonese international footballer Aaron Boupendza, aged 28, has tragically died after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, the Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) confirmed on Wednesday.

Boupendza, who played for Chinese side Zhejiang, had only recently joined the club after a stint with Rapid Bucharest. His death has shocked fans and teammates around the world.

"At 28, Boupendza is remembered as a great striker who left a lasting impression at the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon (in 2022)," FEGAFOOT said in a statement.

"Trained at CF Mounana and Bordeaux in France, the Gabonese striker joined the Chinese league after a brief spell in Romania.

"FEGAFOOT and the great family of Gabonese soccer offer his biological family their sincere condolences in this difficult time."

Former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who played alongside him for Gabon, paid tribute on Instagram. "I don't have the words. Rest in peace my brother."

Since making his international debut in 2016, Boupendza earned 35 caps and scored eight goals. He featured for Gabon at the Africa Cup of Nations last year.

President Brice Oligui Nguema of Gabon also expressed his condolences. "It is with great sadness that I learn of the tragic death of Aaron Boupendza, a talented centre-forward who brought honour to Gabonese soccer. I offer my sincere condolences to his family and friends. May God bless his soul."

Boupendza’s career included spells at Bordeaux, Pau and Tours in France, Hatayspor in Turkey, Al-Arabi in Qatar, FC Cincinnati in the United States, Rapid Bucharest in Romania, and most recently Zhejiang, where he recorded four goals and six assists in just six matches.