According to the rules of the modern calendar, the date of February 29th occurs every four years. 2026 is not a leap year, so this time February ends with 28 days. Abduqodir Husanov, one of Uzbekistan's most famous footballers, was born on this unusual date. According to sources, he was born on February 29, 2004, and currently plays for Manchester City. Therefore, this year he will have to receive congratulations on February 28 or March 1.
One of the foreign sources, wionews.com, has published a special article about famous athletes born on February 29th in world sports. It is a source of special pride for Uzbek fans that Abdukodir Khusanov's name is included in this unique and interesting list - conditionally speaking, among the "strange five." Because today it is seen as one of the brightest and greatest hopes not only for our country, but also for football in the entire region.
The first hero of the list is Spanish footballer Ferran Torres. He is also one of the footballers born on 29 February 2000. Today, the forward, who has become a key figure for Barcelona, stands out for his speed, versatility, and ability to play in various attacking positions. A Valencia academy graduate, Torres also played for Manchester City for a time before joining the Catalan giants on a large transfer. His productive performances for the Spanish national team clearly demonstrate his level.
In second place, of course, is Abdukodir Khusanov himself. The Uzbek defender, born on a date that comes once every four years, has come a long way in a short time. Having attracted the attention of European clubs with his reliable and strong performances in the youth national teams, Husanov began his professional career in Belarus. Then he moved to the French club "Lans," and shortly after, he joined the ambitious English giant "Manchester City." He is known for his speed, physical strength, accurate long-distance and short-distance passes, tactical level, and good field vision. This distinguishes him among modern defenders.
Another well-known name on the list is American athlete Eric Kendrick. He was born on February 29, 1992, and is considered one of the athletes who made a bright career in NFL - American football. Playing as a linebacker, Kendricks is known for his leadership, defensive intelligence, and consistent play. It is no coincidence that he was included in the All-Pro symbolic team. This is an important indicator of his level and prestige in professional sports.
Canadian hockey player Cameron Ward is in fourth place. Born February 29, 1984, the goalkeeper is one of the athletes who left a worthy mark in NHL history. His name is especially remembered by fans as the goalkeeper who led the Carolina Hurricanes to their first Stanley Cup in history in 2006. He won the Conn Smieth Award as the most valuable player of the playoffs and was among the most famous goalkeepers of his time.
Another member of the "Wonderful Five" is German footballer Benedict Hövedes. Born on 29 February 1988, this defender is known for his versatility, leadership qualities and reliable play. He captained Schalke 04 and was a key part of the squad that won the 2014 World Cup for Germany. It is well known that Huedez played a major role in that great success in Brazil.
Such lists are not just an interesting fact, but also show a peculiar harmony between fate and date in the world of sports. Birth on February 29th is an unusual occurrence. However, some athletes born on this "rarely occurring" date have left a huge mark on the big arenas. Now, the presence of Uzbekistan's Abduqodir Husanov among them will sound even more pleasant to fans.
In short, the fact that Husanov's name is mentioned in such an authoritative and interesting list is not a simple fact. This is another sign that he is gaining international recognition, gaining attention in the football world, and bringing the Uzbek football brand to a higher level. Will they accept the congratulations on February 28th or March 1st - that's the second question. Most importantly, the guy from February 29th has already taken his place on the big football scene.
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