A Life Too Short: The Tragedy of Robert Enke Book

WINNER OF THE 2011 WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR WINNER OF THE BRITISH SPORTS BOOK AWARDS 2012 FOOTBALL BOOK OF THE YEAR Why does an international footballer with the world at his feet decide to take his own life? On 10 November 2009 the German national goalkeeper, Robert Enke, stepped in front of a passing train. He was thirty-two years old and a devoted husband and father. Enke had played for a string of Europe's top clubs, including Barcelona and Jose Mourinho's Benfica and was destined to become his country's first choice in goal for years to come. But beneath the veneer of success, Enke battled with crippling depression. Award-winning writer Ronald Reng pieces together the puzzle of his friend's life, shedding valuable light on the crushing pressures endured by professional sportsmen and on life at the top clubs. At its heart, Enke's tragedy is a universal story of a man struggling against his demons.

Robert Enke hoped to write his life story with his good friend Ronald Reng. Tragically, Reng was left with the task of writing the book alone after Enke took his own life after battling severe depression throughout his career. A poignant elegy to a friend, A Life Too Short is surely one of the most deserving winners ever of the William Hill sports prize. There are moments in the book which make you cringe knowing what eventual outcome they will contribute to. For all the tragedy, the fact the book focuses on depression in football must be a positive thing and it must be hoped it has helped others cope in some small way. A poignant tale of friendship and tragedy. Wonderful writing.

On 10 November 2009 German national goalkeeper, Robert Enke, stepped in front of a passing train. He was thirty two years old. Viewed from outside, Enke had it all. Here was a professional goalkeeper who had played for a string of Europe's top clubs