Ruud Gullit: “A day not laughed is a day not lived”
More than twenty-five years after his final match, Ruud Gullit has entered a chapter shaped by comfort and the simple joy of doing what feels right. His world today moves at a different rhythm, yet the curiosity and discipline that defined his football career remain untouched. In this stage of life, he focuses on enjoying what comes next. In this exclusive interview Ruud Gullit opens up about the mindset that shaped his life after football, and how his collaboration with Skechers brings him so much joy.
A New Rhythm
Golf has become Gullit’s favourite ritual, a sport he first tried during his Milan years. “I golf a lot. I travel because of it, meet people, and I enjoy it everywhere I go,” he says. On the course he discovers something he never saw in football. “In golf you meet the real character of someone. It is the only sport where people cheat against themselves.”
What makes him happy now is surprisingly simple. “I love knowing I can play the next day. I love good weather. And I enjoy seeing other people happy too.” Where some players struggle after retirement, Gullit found a smooth path. Television work came naturally, but his personality played a big role too. “I am approachable and positive. That helps you land in new places.”
More than anything, he now protects his freedom. He enjoys work, but avoids unnecessary obligations. “I am in the last train. Now I just want to enjoy the life I have. I travelled a lot in my career but never saw anything. Now I can finally see the world.”
Italian Influence
Gullit’s years in Italy left a permanent mark. “Italy influenced everything. The language, the passion, the love for beauty. Cars, food, jewellery, clothing, furniture. Italians know how to enjoy life,” he explains.
That influence sharpened his sense of aesthetics. It shaped how he dresses, how he chooses quality and how he recognises craft. Even today he sees life through that Italian lens. “Italian style taught me to pay attention to the details. And Skechers absolutely has that in many of their shoes.”
Modern Football Culture
The relationship between football, fashion and public visibility has changed significantly. Gullit embraces this evolution instead of resisting it. “Every generation has its own things. Some people complain about modern fashion, but that is their problem,” he says with a smile.
For him, there is only one rule that never changed. “If you perform, you can do anything. If you do not, you will hear about it.”
He gives an example with blunt honesty. “If you have ten bad games in a row and post yourself in a new expensive outfit, do not be surprised when people say something. That is part of being a public figure.”
He has always believed in creativity around football, but only when the foundation is strong. “In my time I made music too. That was fine, as long as I kept performing.”
Comfort is What Speaks to me
When Skechers approached him, Gullit was intrigued by people’s reactions. “Everyone said: you in Skechers? I found that funny. It fits my lifestyle. I like doing the unexpected.”
The true connection, however, was comfort. “The shoes are incredibly comfortable. They breathe and they fit well. People who stand or walk all day wear them. They are affordable too. That’s something a lot of people truly care about.”
His Italian-inspired taste is simple and sharp, and Skechers adapted quickly. “I do not like too many details. They now know my style.” As someone who spends hours on flights, he is especially fond of the brand’s slip-ins. “You put them on like slippers. Perfect for travelling.”
Gullit has also watched the brand grow into football and golf. “Harry Kane scores in them. Players say the boots sit well. Comfort is the most important thing.”
Would he recommend Skechers football boots to young players? “Absolutely. Comfort is everything. You need support, especially in the heel and ankle. In my time shoes were narrow and stiff. Now players can finally choose something that fits.”
He notices one more shift. “People often come to me, look at my shoes, and say: ‘Hey, those aren’t Skechers, right?’ They hope to catch me not actually wearing them. And then I say: ‘Yes, they are!’ And they respond: ‘Oh, I didn’t expect that.’ That really makes me laugh and gives me the most satisfaction.”
The Lesson He Carries Forward
When asked for a message to young footballers, Ruud Gullit keeps it honest. “Enjoy it. And remember that hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard.” He knows how quickly a career can pass. “Sixteen years go by faster than you think. So embrace it fully while it lasts.”
He lives by simple principles. “A day not laughed is a day not lived. Be friendly. Some people are pessimists. I do not deal well with that. My nature is positivity.”
His toughest moments became his biggest teachers. “Your deepest lows can be your greatest moments. You must lift yourself up again. That is what builds character.”
Ready for more?
Enjoyed reading about Ruud Gullit and his partnership with Skechers? Read how Steven Berghuis became the first dutch ambassador for Skechers football!
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