David Batty’s quiet life after 1998 World Cup penalty miss
9 reported
A BBC Sport article published on July 15, 2026, reports on former England midfielder David Batty's life after his penalty miss in the 1998 World Cup shootout against Argentina. Batty, who took his first professional penalty in that match, had his spot-kick saved by goalkeeper Carlos Roa, sending Argentina through. Rather than showing visible distress, Batty held his head high and later questioned why his agent came to check on him. The article states Batty has kept a low profile since retiring in 2004, with former teammates saying no one has seen him since they played together. Batty reportedly planned to dedicate his time solely to his family in Yorkshire after retiring and has not been involved in the football industry.
What’s reported
David Batty's penalty in the 1998 World Cup last-16 shootout against Argentina was saved by Carlos Roa.
Batty did not collapse in tears or pull his shirt over his face after the miss.
He later questioned why his friend and agent, Hayden Evans, came from the stands to check on him.
A fast food company wanted Batty to feature in an advert making light of the miss, but he refused because he did not want to profit off fans' disappointment.
Batty has kept a low profile since retiring in 2004.
Former teammate Mark Viduka said, "I don't think anyone has seen him since we played together."
Batty was part of Leeds United's 1992 title win and Blackburn Rovers' 1995 Premier League win.
He attended a rare public event in 2011 to lay a wreath for his friend Gary Speed.
Batty's agent, Hayden Evans, said Batty always planned to have nothing to do with football after retiring.
Key figures
David Batty, former England and Leeds United midfielder
Carlos Roa, Argentina goalkeeper
Hayden Evans, Batty's agent and friend
Mark Viduka, former Leeds United teammate
Mark Atkins, former Blackburn Rovers teammate
Eirik Bakke, former Leeds United teammate
John Sheridan, former Leeds United midfielder and Batty's mentor
Dave Hancock, former Leeds United head physiotherapist
Warren Barton, former Newcastle United teammate
Gary Speed, former teammate and friend (deceased 2011)
Sources: BBC News
