Former Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur star Gareth Bale has confirmed his retirement from football at the age of 33.
The Welshman, who became the most expensive player in football history when he moved to Real Madrid in 2013, was most recently seen on the world stage in Qatar, where he captained Wales in their unsuccessful bid to emerge from Group B at the FIFA World Cup. He scored his side’s only goal of the tournament from the penalty spot against the United States.
He had most recently represented Major League Soccer outfit Los Angeles FC, but made just 13 appearances since signing a 12-month contract in June.
“After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from club and international football,” Bale wrote in a social media statement on Monday.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have realized my dream of playing the sport I love.
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