'A very special moment': Georgi Lazarov on earning his first senior Bulgaria call-up
Monday, November 9, 2026
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The 22-year-old Cherno More striker, who has worn hearing aids since childhood, has already become a source of great inspiration in his country.
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A first senior national team call-up is a milestone in any footballer's career, but it has added significance for Georgi Lazarov.
Told he would never make it as a professional footballer, the striker has earned a place in Bulgaria’s UEFA Nations League squad for their upcoming matches against Iceland and Estonia.
Lazarov has worn hearing aids since the age of two, having experienced severe hearing loss following an illness when he was just two months old. But his hearing impairment never diminished his ambition to pursue a career in professional football.
"All my life, I've been defying the odds – I was told I would never make it as a professional, but I've never stopped believing in myself," Lazarov said.
Now, with 11 goals and three assists in 45 appearances for Bulgarian top-flight side Cherno More, Lazarov has established himself as a promising young talent.
Overcoming challenges
Growing up in Plovdiv, Lazarov developed a passion for football from an early age. As his ambitions grew, he faced a difficult decision about his hearing.
He chose to continue using hearing aids rather than undergo surgery for cochlear implants, which he feared could affect his ability to play professionally due to the risks associated with head injuries.
Determined to pursue his footballing ambitions, Lazarov progressed through the youth ranks before establishing himself at senior club level.
He has represented Bulgaria's Under-21 side on nine occasions, including in a memorable 2-1 victory over Portugal last month, but playing for the senior team is a step above.
"Getting the chance to play for Bulgaria's senior national team is a very special moment for myself and for my entire family, who've been there for me throughout all these years," Lazarov said.
Inspiring the next generation
Having achieved one of his biggest ambitions, Lazarov hopes his story can encourage other young people, particularly those facing similar challenges, to pursue their dreams.
His advice for the next generation is simple.
"Just one thing – to keep dreaming. They should know that life is full of difficult situations, yet the most important thing is to never give up."