Football legend Gareth Bale has announced his shocking retirement from International and club football on his social media on Monday (January 9). Ex-Wales, Tottenham and Real Madrid forward star footballer hung his boot from professional football at 33.
He was playing for Los Angeles Galaxy at the Major League Soccer but has made the announcement after Wales' fiasco at the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Bale termed his decision to retire from professional football by far the hardest of his career.
"After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football," Bale's statement on his social media handle read.
"I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love. It (football) has truly given me some of the best moments of my life," added Bale.
"The highest of highs over 17 seasons, that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me."
His 17 year of illustrious career finally came to an end which had three LaLiga titles, five Champions League trophies for Real Madrid and three Club World Cups. Bale’s final appearance came in 3-0 defeat to England as Wales were knocked out of the group stage of the World Cup in Qatar.
"From my very first touch at Southampton to my last with LAFC and everything in between, shaped a club career that I have an immense pride and gratitude for. Playing for and captaining my country 111 times has truly been a dream come true.
"To show my gratitude to all of those that have played their part along this journey, feels like an impossibility. I feel indebted to many people for helping to change my life and shape my career in a way I couldn't have ever dreamed of when I first started out at 9 years old.
“To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All of my previous managers and coaches, back room staff, team mates, all the dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, the impact you have had is immeasurable,” Bale said
Bale's club career took him from Southampton to Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid before his move to Los Angeles. He was his country's talisman as they reached the 2016 and 2020 Euros before ending his career in Wales' first World Cup since 1958 at Qatar 2022.
"My parents and my sister, without your dedication in those early days, without such a strong foundation, I wouldn't be writing this statement right now, so thank you for putting me on this path and for your unwavering support. My wife and my children, your love and support has carried me through.
"Right beside me for all the highs and lows, keeping me grounded along the way. You inspire me to be better, and to make you proud. So, I move on with anticipation to the next stage of my life. A time of change and transition, an opportunity for a new adventure...," Bale concluded.
