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From Homelessness to World Cup Dreams: Kone's Rise

11/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Richard Kone, a striker for Queens Park Rangers, has risen from homelessness to Ivory Coast international in under two years.
At 16, he lived on the streets of Abidjan.
His ascent spans ninth tier of English football, winning League One Player of the Year, and competing in the Championship.
If selected again, Kone could play at the 2026 World Cup for Ivory Coast in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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Story summary

Richard Kone, a striker for Queens Park Rangers, has risen from homelessness to Ivory Coast international in under two years.
At 16, he lived on the streets of Abidjan.
His ascent spans ninth tier of English football, winning League One Player of the Year, and competing in the Championship.
If selected again, Kone could play at the 2026 World Cup for Ivory Coast in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.