Hassan Sunny, born on April 2, 1984, is a prominent Singaporean professional footballer known for his remarkable career as a goalkeeper. With a career spanning over two decades, Hassan has played for several clubs in the Singapore Premier League (SPL), and his dedication to the game has earned him a reputation as one of the country’s most respected football players. As of 2023, he plays for Albirex Niigata (S) in the SPL, continuing to impress with his shot-stopping abilities and leadership in goal.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Hassan Sunny’s journey into football began at a young age. He joined the National Football Academy in 2000, where he honed his skills as a goalkeeper. His professional career kicked off in 2003 with Geylang United, where he made an immediate impact, earning a nomination for the S.League Young Player of the Year. Hassan quickly established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in Singapore, and his consistent performances caught the attention of national team selectors.

In 2004, Hassan became part of the Young Lions, a team formed from Singapore’s top young talents. The team included other future stars such as Baihakki Khaizan and Shahril Ishak. During his time with the Young Lions, Hassan developed his skills while competing in the S.League, making a name for himself as a goalkeeper with potential for international recognition.

Notable Club Career

Hassan’s club career saw him play for several top-tier Singaporean clubs, cementing his status as a key player in the league. After returning from national service in 2006, Hassan rejoined Geylang United and became their first-choice goalkeeper. In 2008, he made a high-profile move to Tampines Rovers, where he enjoyed a successful period, winning the S.League title and the Singapore Community Shield in 2011. His leadership and reliability between the posts were vital to the team’s achievements.

In 2011, Hassan moved to Warriors FC (formerly known as the Singapore Armed Forces FC), where he played an integral role in securing the 2014 S.League title. His outstanding performances earned him the S.League Player of the Year award in 2014, the first time a goalkeeper had won the honor.

Hassan’s career took an international turn in 2015 when he joined Army United in Thailand’s Thai Premier League. His performances in Thailand gained international recognition, and in 2016, British newspaper The Daily Telegraph ranked him as the 18th best goalkeeper in the world. Hassan returned to Singapore in 2017, playing for Home United and later rejoining Army United in Thailand for another stint.

In 2020, Hassan signed with Lion City Sailors, a new privatized club in the Singapore Premier League. Here, he played a pivotal role in winning the 2021 SPL title and the 2022 Singapore Community Shield. Hassan’s leadership and consistency helped the Sailors secure a historic title, cementing his place in Singapore’s footballing history.

Success at Albirex Niigata (S)

In December 2022, Hassan signed with Albirex Niigata (S), marking the next chapter of his illustrious career. In his first season with the club, he helped Albirex win the 2023 Singapore Premier League title, making him the first and only player in the history of the league to win league titles with four different clubs. He also won the prestigious Golden Gloves award, having kept nine clean sheets in the league that season.

International Career

Hassan’s contributions to the Singapore national team have been just as notable as his club career. He made his debut for Singapore in 2004 at the age of 19 and became a regular fixture in the team over the years. His most significant achievement with the national team came in 2007 when he helped the Singapore U-23 team win the bronze medal at the Southeast Asian Games, their first SEA Games medal since 1995.

On the senior international stage, Hassan has played in numerous qualifying matches, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2020 AFF Championship, where he was named to the “Team of the Tournament.” He also represented Singapore in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification matches, earning his 100th cap against India in 2022. Hassan retired from international football in 2024 after amassing 115 caps over two decades, a testament to his longevity and impact on the national team.

Style of Play

Hassan is known for his exceptional reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and leadership on the field. His height (1.85m) gives him an advantage in aerial duels, while his agility and quick reactions make him one of the most formidable goalkeepers in the region. He is particularly known for his ability to save penalties, and his calm demeanor under pressure has earned him respect both locally and internationally.

In addition to his technical prowess, Hassan is admired for his strong personality and leadership. He is often seen organizing his defense, ensuring his team remains composed during critical moments in a match. His ability to read the game and make crucial saves has made him a standout figure in Singaporean football.

Personal Life and Legacy

Outside of football, Hassan has ventured into the food business. In 2021, he opened a nasi padang stall called Dapur Hassan in Tampines, Singapore, with his family. His stall has garnered attention, particularly following his standout performances in international matches, and even led to an outpouring of support from Chinese football fans after his heroic saves during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification matches.

Hassan is also a popular figure on social media, where he shares updates about his career and life beyond football. His contributions to the sport have made him a role model for aspiring footballers in Singapore.

Hassan’s legacy as one of Singapore’s greatest goalkeepers is firmly cemented. Through his exceptional performances on the field, his leadership, and his impact on the local football scene, Hassan Sunny will always be remembered as a key figure in Singaporean football history.