Ezzeldin Bahader, an Egyptian grandfather, was recently recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest professional player. He will celebrate his 75th birthday on November 3.

Israeli Isaak Hayik, 73, previously held the record.

The recognition came following a game he played on October 6, where he missed a penalty kick and his team lost 2-3 to El Ayat Sports club in the Egyptian third division league.

Bahader made his debut in March, in which he scored a goal from the penalty spot, and was planning on to claim the title that same month. When the pandemic started and halted global sports, he had to wait until recently to achieve his dream. Bahader previously told media he was 75, which he attributed to "rounding up." 

According to him, sponsors and publicity were attracted to his team, thanks to his fame.

The previous amateur player had his grandchildren attending Saturday's match, chanting "Come on, grandpa" from the touchline.

"I dream of being able to break my own record one more time, just to make the competition a little harder," Bahader said, though he is now out of the contract.

(With input from agencies)