Wales captain Gareth Bale, one of the most iconic British footballers of all time, announced retirement from club and international football with immediate effect, Monday. The 33-year-old, a former Real Madrid star, also played for Tottenham, Southampton and LAFC, in his glittering career spanning 16 years. Bale, Wales’ all-time record appearance holder with 111 appearances, led the country to qualify for two European Championships, semi-finals of Euro 2016, and a first World Cup since 1958. His made his final competitive appearance on November 29, during Wales' group stage match against England in FIFA World Cup 2022.
He announced his decision via social media: “After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love.
“It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of highs over 17 seasons, that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me.”
The 33-year-old added: “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 nine 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.”