It's over: Bolt's Australian soccer dream collapses

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Sprint king Usain Bolt's attempt to become a professional soccer player with Australia's Central Coast Mariners collapsed on Friday as his trial period was terminated after contract talks failed.

The eight-time Olympic champion had been trying out with the A-League side for an indefinite period since arriving in August, hoping to fulfill a childhood dream to become a soccer player.

Usain Bolt (L) celebrates scoring his second goal with teammate Jordan Murray of Central Coast Mariners in his first competitive start for the club against Macarthur South West United in Sydney, Australia, October 12, 2018. /VCG Photo

The 32-year-old superstar's quest garnered worldwide attention, but his abilities were questioned and the club reportedly offered him only a fraction of the three million Australian dollars (2.1 million US dollars) his management were said to be seeking, with outside sponsors needed to make the deal viable.

"As previously stated, the club and (Bolt's representative) Ricky Simms have been in conversations with external partners to find a commercial solution that suits all parties," the Mariners said in a statement.

"Despite several promising potential partners, both Bolt and the Central Coast Mariners have amicably concluded that they will not be able to settle on a suitable deal in a timely manner."

Usain Bolt of Central Coast Mariners warms up at the A-League trial match between his side and Central Coast Select in Gosford, Australia, August 31, 2018. /VCG Photo

The 100-meter world record holder, who retired from athletics last year and had previously tried out with clubs in Germany, South Africa and Norway, thanked the Mariners for the opportunity.

"I would like to thank the Central Coast Mariners owners, management, staff, players and fans for making me feel so welcome during my time there," said the Jamaican, who will head to Europe soon for a previously agreed commercial engagement.

"I wish the club success for the season ahead."

Bolt recently turned down a trial-free contract from cashed-up Maltese champions Valletta to focus on trying to make the grade in Australia.

That offer prompted the Mariners to table their own deal, but they didn't have the funds to make it work without outside help.

Source(s): AFP