Slovak Football Star Petr Dubovský Died Before Proposing, Leaving Behind a legacy of Talent and Humility
Oviedo, Spain – A poignant detail has emerged surrounding the tragic 1996 death of Slovak football star Petr Dubovský: he had purchased an engagement ring shortly before his fatal car accident in Thailand, intending to propose to his longtime girlfriend, Aurelia Čarabová, whom he met while attending Bratislava Grammar School. The revelation, reported by Spanish sports outlet Diario AS, adds a deeply personal layer to the story of a player remembered for both his exceptional skill and quiet character.
Dubovský, 25, died in a car crash during a holiday in Thailand, cutting short a promising career that had recently brought him to Real Oviedo in Spain’s top league. The revelation of the ring’s purchase was made after his death,according to Diario AS,when a receipt was found detailing the jewelry purchase.
Beyond the heartbreaking romantic detail, Dubovský’s story is one of remarkable talent and understated personality. Slovak sports journalist Jozef Korbel,a close friend,described him as “introverted,sometimes distrustful and hard to access,but if you entered his circle,he gave you everything.” Korbel emphasized Dubovský’s loyalty, stating, “He told me I am not a journalist, but that I was his friend. He didn’t like interviews or public performances, but he was a great guy and chose his friends thoroughly.”
korbel further highlighted Dubovský’s character,noting his “simplicity,humility and generosity,” and his aversion to dishonesty: “He was very honest and hated lies.”
Dubovský’s footballing ability was equally lauded. Korbel described his technical skill as “a miracle,” praising his “watchmaker’s accuracy in the left leg” and noting he was “very admired” in Czechoslovakia (and later Slovakia and the Czech Republic after the dissolution of the country).
A memorable anecdote from his time at Real Oviedo illustrates Dubovský’s willingness to embrace playful challenges. In September 1995, following a 3-2 victory against Real Madrid at the santiago Bernabéu stadium, Dubovský and teammate Pac Sanz lost a bet with a local Asturian hairdresser, Ramir. The wager? If Oviedo won, both players would shave their heads. Despite Dubovský’s preference for long hair, he honored the bet, allowing Ramir to cut his hair. Oliverio álvarez, who scored twice in the match and received an assist from Dubovský, recounted the event, emphasizing their commitment to keeping their word.The Carlos Tartiere stadium, Oviedo’s home ground, was inaugurated in September 2000 - just three months after Dubovský’s death. Journalist David Alonso of Diario AS notes that Dubovský never had the prospect to play at the new stadium,but his spirit will be present this Sunday as Oviedo plays a match there,a testament to his enduring legacy within the club and the region.
